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Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP)

Algal Species (found in the Gulf of Mexico) that Cause ASP
Pseudo-nitzschia species (diatom)
For example: P. pseudodelicatissima and P. multiseries

Toxin
Domoic acid and its derivatives

Human Symptoms/Illness
Symptoms appear within 24 hours; memory loss can last for more than one year

Factors Affecting Degree of Toxicity
Amount of toxin ingested
Transformation of toxins
Rate of toxin elimination

Diagnosis
Consumption of seafood before sickness
Can examine food specimen
NOTE: Symptoms are more severe in the elderly and in children

Immediate Symptoms
Vomiting
Abdominal cramps
Diarrhea
Nausea
Headache

Subsequent Symptoms (within 48 hours)
Disorientation
Memory loss
Seizures
Coma

Seafood Associated with ASP
Clams
Mussels
Dungeness crabs

ASP Cases in the U.S.
Hawaii
Oregon
Washington

ASP Cases in the Gulf of Mexico
None