Late presentation of polyserositis following single honey bee sting: A case report

The severity of a bee sting reaction can vary. There are two kinds of responses: local and systemic. The systemic manifestations are rare, especially polyserositis. Polyserositis describes the inflammation of serous membranes such as the pericardium, the pleura, or the peritoneum. We reported a case of polyserositis following a honeybee sting with late presentation.

This is a case report of a 30-year-old man who presented with progressive dyspnea, swelling of both lower limbs, and abdominal pain that began three days after the bite. CT showed pericardial, pleural, and abdominal fluid. Echocardiography showed tamponade. He underwent surgery to remove pericardial and pleural fluid. Following surgery, the patient underwent medical treatment. Ten days following treatment he developed a complete resolution of all symptoms and signs.

Bee stings can be life- threatening. Polyserositis occurring due to honey bee sting is a rare complication. The honey bee sting appeared to cause increased microvascular permeability. Pericardial, pleural effusion, abdominal ascites, and lower limb edema due to honey bee stings are infrequent complications. The physician should know enough about all the possible side effects of bee stings.

Physicians should be informed of the rare complications of bee stings. To prevent systemic complications medical treatment is recommended.