Centipede envenomation

Abstract

Five episodes of envenomation by centipedes in 2 patients are reported. These arthropods are fast-moving, frightening in appearance to some, and may display aggressive behavior. However, stings from these centipedes, like most found worldwide, caused no serious morbidity or mortality. Common effects included intense local pain, erythema, induration, and necrosis, as well as mild constitutional symptoms. All resolved without sequelae. Treatment included pain control, wound care, and tetanus immunization.

The risky business of being an entomologist: A systematic review

“…Four studies reported envenomation, however Stern et al (2000), and Roll and Schmid-Grendelmeier (2005) reported that the entomologists in their studies were allergic to the venom, hence these have been classified as allergies. Bush et al (2001) and Isbister et al (2004) did not specify the type of reaction, and have therefore been classified as unspecified venom reactions. The majority of the included studies (n¼ 42) addressed allergies.…”

“…For scorpions and Scolopendromorpha envenomation there was no testing regarding allergies, hence it is unclear whether these reactions were allergic and/or toxic. Reported reactions to Scolopendromorpha were pain, burning sensation, swelling, red streak, felt 'unwell', bleeding, erythema, throbbing, 'sprained' sensation, nausea, pruritus, lump, flushed feeling, and altered sensation (Bush et al, 2001), and Scorpiones reactions including pain, tingling, burning, bleeding, hypersensitivity and paraesthesia (Isbister et al, 2004). The symptoms for other allergic reactions are summarised in Table 6 where there was clinical evidence of the allergy (see Appendix A).…”

“…(Hymenoptera) Allergy (anaphylactic reaction) to Bombus spp. vemom (Hymenoptera) Symptoms after a bumblebee sting: Vertigo, nausea, rhinoconjunctivitis, angioedema, pruritus, wheezing, dyspnoea, and vomiting Bush et al (2001Bush et al ( ) 1990 USA Entomologists working with Scolopendra heros and Scolopendra subspinipes (Scolopendromorpha) with bites during TV interview, class preparation, and within animal facility Unspecified venom reaction from Scolopendra heros and Scolopendra subspinipes (Scolopendromorpha) Symptoms following bites: Pain, burning sensation, swelling, red streak, felt 'unwell', bleeding, erythema, throbbing, 'sprained' sensation, nausea, pruritus, lump, flushed, and altered sensation Draper et al (2003) 1990-2000s UK Laboratory: working with insects Symptoms: Asthma and rhinitis Siracusa et al (2003) 2000s Italy Laboratory and insectary (bait): working with Calliphora vomitoria (Diptera), Aphomia sociella (Lepidoptera), Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera) and Hypopta agavis (Lepidoptera)…”

Centipede Envenomations: Clinical Effects and Treatment

“…When detected, secondary and systemic effects of centipede envenomation should be treated with standard therapy (Bouchard et al 2004;Bush et al 2001;McFee et al 2002;Steen et al 2007;Veraldi et al 2010). Standard proper wound care and tetanus vaccination update (if needed) is also indicated.…”

Proteinuria associated with centipede bite

“…Centipedes are chiefly nocturnal, live in humid environments, are venomous invertebrates and have exoskeleton and jointed legs. Centipede bites are benign common accidents and usually present with local pain, edema, and local hyperthermia [1]. The treatment includes analgesics and local anesthesia to decrease pain.…”