All these results suggest that VCS testing has great promise for successful use as a screening tool and as a tool for monitoring response to therapy. The molecular structure of cholestyramine, an ion exchange resin, matches receptors on the toxin so they fit together as a lock and key, effectively inactivating the toxin. The drug has been used clinically to treat a number of neurotoxin-related syndromes, Dr. Shoemaker said. A clinical trial evaluating its clinical efficacy more extensively is under way. Initial symptoms of ciguatera lead most people to believe they have food poisoning.
Neurologic symptoms develop later.
Worldwide, the number of annual cases is estimated between 300,000 and 1 million. Statistics have been skewed for years because of under-reporting, he noted.