Increased incidence of stings in venom-sensitive patients

We compared the histories of 29 venom-sensitive and 28 control subjects who were selected from our venom referral and general allergy clinics respectively. The variables in the study included insect avoidance knowledge, the number of stings during the previous 2 years, insects involved, and time spent out of doors per week. There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to age. All venom-sensitive patients were well versed in avoidance techniques while only 3 of 28 controls (11%) claimed such knowledge. Venom-sensitive subjects were stung almost ten times more frequently than control subjects. Wasp stings were the most common, followed by yellow jacket, honey bee, and hornet. The venom-sensitive patients also reported spending a greater amount of time outdoors (x 17.4 hours versus x 11.8, P < .05). An analysis of covariance showed that this difference in outdoor exposure was insufficient to account for the disparity in the number of stings. We conclude that other factors such as intrinsic attractants must be responsible for this phenomenon.