Which of the following is a common symptom of shellfish toxin exposure?

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Paresthesia of the mouth and lips is indeed a common symptom of shellfish toxin exposure, specifically associated with certain types of shellfish poisoning such as Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). The presence of toxins can lead to a tingling or numbing sensation in the oral region, which can progress to more severe neurological symptoms if not addressed.

In shellfish poisoning cases, the specific neurotoxins present can affect the nervous system, leading to these characteristic sensations. This symptom often occurs shortly after consumption of contaminated shellfish, making it a critical indicator for diagnosis.

While nausea, skin rash, and dizziness can be symptoms of various foodborne illnesses or allergic reactions, they are not as specifically associated with shellfish toxins as paresthesia. Nausea can occur with other types of poisoning or foodborne illness, skin rashes can stem from allergies or irritations unrelated to toxins, and dizziness can result from a range of conditions. Therefore, paresthesia is more distinctly linked to the effects of neurotoxic shellfish poisoning, highlighting its role as a key symptom in identifying such cases.

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