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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
10:25
Extraction of Venom and Venom Gland Microdissections from Spiders for Proteomic and Transcriptomic Analyses
Published on: November 3, 2014
Systemic Symptoms Following a Wolf Spider Bite in a Child.
Bharati B Bansal1, Goutham Aelluri1, Ray Tsai1
1Pediatric Emergency Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX.
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Wolf spider bites in the US are rare and usually mild. This case details a 10-year-old boy experiencing severe systemic symptoms, including vomiting and abdominal pain, after a wolf spider bite.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Arachnology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Wolf spiders (Lycosidae) are globally distributed but rarely reported to cause significant envenomation in the United States.
- Existing literature suggests wolf spider bites typically result in minor, localized symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of systemic envenomation following a wolf spider bite in a pediatric patient.
- To highlight the atypical presentation of wolf spider envenomation.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 10-year-old boy presenting with acute symptoms after a suspected wolf spider bite.
- Clinical observation and supportive care management.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced rapid onset of severe systemic symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache.
- Symptoms resolved completely within 3 hours with supportive care, with no lasting complications.
Conclusions:
- This case demonstrates that wolf spider bites can cause significant systemic effects, contrary to commonly held beliefs.
- Physicians should consider systemic reactions in patients presenting with symptoms after wolf spider exposure, particularly in regions where they are prevalent.
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