Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 22, 2026
06:03
A Push-pull Protocol to Reduce Colonization of Bird Nest Boxes by Honey Bees
Published on: September 4, 2016
Hymenoptera hypersensitivity in an imported fire ant endemic area
159th Medical Wing/PSMA, Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5300, USA.
Summary
Imported fire ants are the leading cause of Hymenoptera hypersensitivity in endemic areas. This study found they accounted for 42% of clinic visits and 59% of immunotherapy treatments.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Imported fire ants are a significant cause of insect venom hypersensitivity in the Southeastern United States.
- Hymenoptera venom hypersensitivity requires accurate etiological diagnosis for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the most common insect culprit evaluated in a Hymenoptera hypersensitivity clinic.
- To assess the prevalence of imported fire ant hypersensitivity in an endemic region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient records from a university hospital venom clinic.
- Evaluation of 703 patients seen between 1985 and 1995.
Main Results:
- Imported fire ants were responsible for 42% of clinic visits and 59% of initiated immunotherapy.
- Of 703 patients, 515 (73%) experienced systemic anaphylaxis.
- 315 patients (45%) had positive history and skin tests, qualifying for immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Imported fire ants are the primary cause of Hymenoptera hypersensitivity in areas where they are endemic.
- Effective management strategies are crucial in fire ant-endemic regions.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
02:06Allergic Reactions
Overview
01:30Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity, also known as a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, is a condition where the body's immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. Such substances, that cause hypersensitivity are referred to as an allergen, could be something typically harmless to most people, like pollen or certain foods.
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
01:30Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Drug-related allergies are immune-mediated responses triggered by the administration of pharmacological agents. These hypersensitivity reactions are classified based on the immune mechanisms involved. The four primary types—Type I, II, III, and IV—are mediated by different immunological pathways and exhibit distinct clinical manifestations.Type I Hypersensitivity/ IgE-Mediated Reactions: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) immediately mediates Type I hypersensitivity reactions. Upon initial exposure to a...
01:30Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction mediated by Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. When IgE binds to allergens, it triggers the release of mediators– histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from mast cells and basophils. These mediators cause vasodilation, edema, and inflammation, leading to various symptoms.The primary allergens causing anaphylaxis include food items (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), drugs (e.g., penicillin, asparaginase, corticotropin, heparin),...
01:29Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions
Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH), or Type IV hypersensitivity, is a cell-mediated immune response. It occurs when T cells, rather than antibodies, mediate a reaction to specific antigens. It is characterized by a delayed onset (1-2 days) and involves the recruitment of macrophages to the inflammation site.The initiation of a DTH response begins with the sensitization of T cells. During this phase, which lasts at least 1-2 weeks, antigen-specific T cells are activated, clonally expanded, and...
01:19Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions
Type III hypersensitivity reactions occur when antigen–antibody complexes form and activate the complement system. Normally, these complexes help the clearance of antigens by phagocytes and red blood cells. However, when large numbers of immune complexes are present, they can deposit in tissues—particularly in the walls of blood vessels—leading to inflammation and tissue injury. These deposits trigger complement activation and neutrophil recruitment, resulting in serum sickness, a systemic...