Dogger Bank itch

Dogger Bank itch is a cutaneous condition characterized by a long-lasting dermatitis caused by exposure to the sea chervil, Alcyonidium diaphanum, a bryozoan.

[2] Signs of Dogger Bank itch can be found mainly on the arms, wrists, hands, insides of elbows but can spread if the affected person doesn't take prevention measures.

In Dogger Bank itch, sensitivity is acquired after repeated handling of the sea chervils that become entangled in fishing nets.

A. diaphanum is a gelatinous, smooth, sponge-like colony up to 15–30 cm (6–12 in) long, growing on rocks and shells from lower shore down to approximately 100 m (330 ft); superficially, they resemble seaweed.

After doing this repeatedly, the captain "developed an itching red eruption on the flexor aspects of the elbows and forearms which became moist, oozed serum, and spread to involve the backs of the hands, fingers and most of the arms within a few days."