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Complications and outcomes of brown recluse spider bites in children

Jonathan J Hubbard1, Laura P James

  • 1Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA.

Clinical Pediatrics
|February 11, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Brown recluse spider bites in children often cause inflammation and secondary infections. Systemic effects like hemolytic anemia, rhabdomyolysis, and acute kidney injury are common, necessitating careful monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Brown recluse spider bites can lead to significant local and systemic illness.
  • Limited data exists on the specific morbidity associated with these bites in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and characterize the local and systemic morbidity in children diagnosed with brown recluse spider bites.
  • To identify common complications and outcomes in pediatric inpatients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of inpatient medical records (n=26) over a 10-year period.
  • Analysis of discharge diagnoses of 'spider bite' from a tertiary pediatric hospital.
  • Evaluation of inflammatory responses, necrosis, secondary infections, and systemic effects.

Main Results:

  • 85% of children exhibited an inflammatory response with necrosis; 77% had secondary cellulitis.
  • Prevalent systemic effects included hemolytic anemia (50%), rhabdomyolysis (27%), and acute renal failure (12%).
  • Hemolytic anemia showed a bimodal onset (early and late postbite), and 65% experienced major morbidity.

Conclusions:

  • Brown recluse spider bites in children frequently cause significant local and systemic complications.
  • Early recognition and management of local wound issues and systemic effects are crucial.
  • Patient and family education, alongside vigilant inpatient monitoring, are vital for favorable outcomes.

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