Articles: spider-venoms.
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Literature on systemic envenomation caused by tarantula bites, particularly from the Theraphosidae family, is relatively scarce. This case report provides a formal description of the first known instance of systemic envenomation caused by the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri). ⋯ In this case, a 23-year-old employee of an exotic pet shop suffered from perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis because of a Monocentropus balfouri bite. His symptoms were successfully relieved with oral benzodiazepines. EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: This case highlights the potential for serious complications resulting from the bite of Monocentropus balfouri, a species gaining popularity among global exotic pet collectors.
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The poison ivy does not normally occur in Slovakia, like in the Czech Republic, but it can be introduced. The venom of the black widow spider is an effective weapon for capturing prey. ⋯ Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressive soft tissue infection caused by fulminant tissue destruction with severe systemic toxicity and high mortality (Fig. 9, Ref. 16). Keywords: poisonous weaver, necrotizing fasciitis, streptococcus pyogenes, latrodectism, multiorgan failure.
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Emerg Med Australas · Aug 2023
Evolution in the choice of therapies used to treat latrodectism: Redback spider antivenom or standard analgesic medications. Nothing to rave about.
Redback spider (RBS) antivenom (RBSAV) use appears to have decreased since the results of the RAVE-2 antivenom efficacy study were released. The aims of this study were to assess change in RBSAV use over time and compare responses to treatment for antivenom and other analgesics. ⋯ Antivenom use fell over the study period. There was no difference in pain relief between RBSAV and analgesia-only groups. RBSAV, regardless of route of administration, was no better than standard analgesics in pain reduction in the present study.
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Black widow spiders are distributed worldwide and, although rarely fatal, account for significant morbidity. Diagnosis can be challenging, and children are at risk of increased morbidity due to their small size. ⋯ We present a case of a 3-year-old boy who was brought to our emergency department because of sudden ear pain followed by labored breathing, abdominal pain, refusal or inability to speak, and grunting respirations. A black widow spider bite was suspected based on additional history obtained, and the spider was found in his helmet, confirming the diagnosis. The patient had progressive respiratory distress and somnolence and was intubated and transferred to a local pediatric intensive care unit. Antivenom was not initially available and eventually declined by the family. The child received supportive care and recovered after several days. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? This case illustrates the potentially deadly effects a black widow envenomation could cause in a child, and that bite location can affect the constellation of symptoms. It is a reminder that toxins, including that of the black widow spider, should be on the differential for acute abdominal pain, especially with autonomic features.
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Loxoscelism is an important public health problem in Chile and South America, due to the higher rate of cutaneous-visceral involvement. The diagnosis of loxoscelism is mostly clinical without established diagnostic criteria. There is little evidence to support any treatment used in this condition. ⋯ Many questions remain to be answered regarding the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Studies are required to validate diagnostic criteria for loxoscelism, predictors for visceral involvement and response to treatment.