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Author Spotlight: Optimizing Scorpion Venom Extraction for Antivenom Production
Published on: October 6, 2023
Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) envenomation in small animals
Lonny B Pace1, Richard S Vetter
1Central California Veterinary Specialty Center, Fresno, CA 93710the Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521 and Biology Division, San Bernardino County Museum, Redlands, CA, 92373.
Objective:
To provide a comprehensive review of relevant literature regarding the brown recluse spider (BRS) and to define those criteria that must be satisfied before making a diagnosis of brown recluse envenomation.
Etiology:
The complex venom of the BRS contains sphingomyelinase D, which is capable of producing all the clinical signs in the human and some animal models.
Diagnosis:
There is no current commercially available test. In humans there are many proposed guidelines to achieve a definitive diagnosis; however, there are no established guidelines for veterinary patients.
Therapy:
Currently, no consensus exists for treatment of BRS envenomation other than supportive care, which includes rest, thorough cleaning of the site, ice, compression, and elevation.
Prognosis:
Prognosis varies based on severity of clinical signs and response to supportive care.
