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Acute renal failure after massive honeybee stings
Elizabeth De Francesco Daher1, Geraldo Bezerra da Silva Júnior, Glaydcianne Pinheiro Bezerra
1Hospital Universitário Walter Cantídio, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Hospital Geral de Fortaleza, Serviço de Nefrologia, Secretaria de Saúde do Estado do Ceará, Brasil. efdaher@for.terra.com.br
Summary
Surviving numerous Africanized bee stings can cause acute renal failure due to venom toxicity and hypovolemia. Prompt treatment, including dialysis if needed, ensures complete kidney function recovery.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Nephrology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Africanized bees pose a significant public health risk due to their aggressive nature and mass stinging events.
- Massive envenomation can lead to severe systemic complications, including acute renal failure.
Observation:
- Two patients survived extensive Africanized bee attacks (600 and 1500 stings).
- Clinical symptoms included widespread edema, hypotension, and neurological disturbances.
- Both patients developed acute renal failure attributed to hypotension, intravascular hemolysis, and rhabdomyolysis.
Findings:
- Acute renal failure in these cases was likely caused by pigment nephropathy secondary to hypovolemia and direct venom toxicity.
- Treatment involved antihistamines, corticosteroids, and fluid resuscitation.
- One patient required dialysis for severe acute renal failure.
Implications:
- Early recognition and management of acute renal failure following bee stings are critical for patient outcomes.
- Complete renal function recovery is achievable with appropriate medical intervention.
- Understanding the pathophysiology of bee sting-induced nephrotoxicity aids in developing targeted treatment strategies.