Michigan Food Safety Management Practice Test

What symptom may indicate Ciguatoxin poisoning?

1. Bloody stools

2. Reverse sensation of hot and cold

3. Severe dry skin

4. Uncontrollable shaking

The correct answer is: Reverse sensation of hot and cold

Ciguatoxin poisoning is primarily associated with a unique neurological symptom known as "reverse sensation," which causes individuals to feel hot sensations as cold and vice versa. This phenomenon occurs due to the way Ciguatoxin affects the nervous system, specifically altering sensory perception. The toxin is often found in large predatory fish that have consumed smaller fish containing the toxin, leading to symptoms after consumption. Other symptoms of ciguatoxin poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, neurological symptoms such as tingling or numbness. However, the characteristic reverse sensation sets it apart from other types of food poisoning. In this case, it highlights the unique nature of the ciguatoxin's effects compared to other foodborne illnesses or toxins, which typically present with more common gastrointestinal or systemic symptoms. Considering the options, the presence of reverse sensation as a key indicator of ciguatoxin poisoning emphasizes the need to understand the specific symptoms associated with various foodborne toxins, reflecting the importance of recognizing these signs in the context of food safety management.