Synonym(s)
Loxosceles species; Loxoscelism; Spider bites through Loxosceles laeta
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Ulcerative skin defects and systemic reactions caused by the venom of spiders of the genus Loxosceles.
PathogenThis section has been translated automatically.
V.a. Loxoszeles reclusa (brown hermit spider), furthermore L. deserta, L. arizonica and others Distribution in North and South America, Near East. The toxin (necrotoxin), which is composed of several protein fractions, has sphingomyelinase D activity.
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Clinical featuresThis section has been translated automatically.
- Skin symptoms at the bite site: initially painless papules, erythematous swelling of the surrounding area, after 6-12 hours blistering, within a week development of a poorly healing ulcer.
- Optional generalized skin symptoms: maculopapular exanthema, purpura, urticaria, pustular exanthema.
- Optional systemic reactions: fever, fatigue, rarely haemolysis or disseminated intravascular coagulation, jaundice, renal failure.
TherapyThis section has been translated automatically.
Symptomatic local therapy (cooling, possibly elevation), internal antihistamines such as desloratadine (e.g. Aerius) 1-2 tbl/day, possibly dapson ( DADPS). In case of system involvement glucocorticoids like prednisolone (e.g. Decortin H) in medium dosage.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Hostetler MA et al (2003) Sudden unexplained hemolysis occurring in an infant due to presumed loxosceles envenomation. J Emerg Med 25: 277-282
- Isbister GK, White J (2004) Clinical consequences of spider bites: recent advances in our understanding. Toxicon 43: 477-492
- Rees RS et al (1987) Arthropod bites and stings. In: Fitzpatrick TB et al. Dermatology in general medicine. 3rd ed. 2495-2499
- Trattner A et al (1990) Pustular form of loxoscelism. Dermatologist 41: 218-219
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Outgoing links (10)
Antihistamines, systemic; Dadps; Desloratadine; Glucocorticosteroids; Papel; Prednisolone; Purpura (overview); Rash; Ulcer of the skin (overview); Urticaria (overview);Disclaimer
Please ask your physician for a reliable diagnosis. This website is only meant as a reference.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer