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Toxic reactions induced by hymenoptera venom
Annals of Allergy
|May 1, 1984
Summary
Multiple hymenoptera stings can cause severe toxic reactions, including acute renal failure and hemolysis. However, reactions vary, with some patients experiencing only anaphylactoid shock and angioedema.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Nephrology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Hymenoptera stings, common in many regions, can lead to venom toxicity.
- While allergic reactions are well-documented, severe systemic toxicity from mass stings requires further investigation.
Observation:
- A man stung by 175 yellow jackets developed delayed acute renal failure, intravascular hemolysis, and rhabdomyolysis after initial anaphylactoid shock.
- A woman stung by 65 bees experienced only anaphylactoid shock and extensive angioedema, without renal or muscular complications.
Findings:
- Massive hymenoptera envenomation can trigger severe systemic toxicity, including acute kidney injury and muscle breakdown.
- The severity of toxic reactions appears to correlate with the number and type of hymenoptera involved.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for severe, delayed organ damage following mass stings.
- Suggests a need for vigilant monitoring of renal and muscular function in patients with significant hymenoptera envenomation.
- Underscores the variable clinical presentations of hymenoptera venom toxicity.