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The Hymenoptera venom study I, 1979-1982: demographics and history-sting data
R F Lockey1, P C Turkeltaub, I A Baird-Warren
1Department of Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa 33612.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|September 1, 1988
Summary
This Hymenoptera venom study found that most allergic subjects experienced systemic reactions (SRs), with moderate to severe reactions occurring across various insect stings. Epinephrine was the primary treatment for SRs in this large-scale allergy research.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The Hymenoptera venom study initiated in 1979 investigated adverse reactions to insect stings.
- It involved 3236 subjects with a history of Hymenoptera insect allergy.
- The study followed FDA approval of Hymenoptera venoms for therapeutic use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze case histories, skin test results, and adverse reactions in Hymenoptera-allergic individuals.
- To evaluate immunotherapy efficacy and associated adverse reactions.
- To understand treatment outcomes for systemic reactions (SRs).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of case histories from 3236 Hymenoptera-allergic subjects.
- Inclusion of data on skin test results, adverse reactions, and immunotherapy.
- Data collection involved 84 Fellows and Members of the American Academy of Allergy and Immunology.
Main Results:
- 89% of subjects reported at least one systemic reaction (SR).
- Moderate to severe SRs were common across yellow jacket, hornet, honeybee, and wasp stings.
- SRs onset varied, with 51% occurring within 10 minutes, but some delayed reactions were noted.
Conclusions:
- Hymenoptera stings frequently cause systemic reactions, necessitating effective management strategies.
- Understanding reaction patterns and timing is crucial for timely and appropriate treatment.
- Further research into immunotherapy and treatment efficacy is supported by these findings.
