Acute Kidney Injury Secondary to Rhabdomyolysis Due to Wasp Bite

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Nephrology
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Wasp and bee stings can trigger diverse systemic reactions, from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
• While renal dysfunction is a known complication of hymenoptera envenomation, significant kidney injury remains infrequent.
• Previous literature highlights various systemic effects, but specific cases of wasp sting-induced rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury (AKI) are rare.

Observation:

• A 74-year-old male presented with rhabdomyolysis and AKI three days post-wasp bite.
• The patient's condition was successfully managed with intensive care, including fluid resuscitation and hemodialysis.
• Symptoms resolved following a nine-day hospitalization period.

Findings:

• This case underscores the potential for severe renal complications following wasp stings.
• Rhabdomyolysis, a condition involving muscle breakdown, was identified as a key factor in the observed acute kidney injury.
• The patient's recovery demonstrates the efficacy of supportive medical interventions.

Implications:

• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for systemic toxicity, including rhabdomyolysis and AKI, in patients presenting after wasp stings.
• Early diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial for improving outcomes in severe envenomation cases.
• This case highlights the importance of recognizing the broad spectrum of wasp sting-related health effects for effective patient care.