2-8.
TREATMENT OF BROWN RECLUSE SPIDER BITES
Death seldom results from the bite of this spider when proper measures are
administered in time. It is necessary to pack the site of the bite with crushed ice for 6-8
hours to keep the venom from spreading rapidly. Keep the patient warm to the point of
perspiration and force fluids into him. The treatment is much the same as for a pit viper
bite, but for a much shorter period of time. The venom injected by the recluse spider is
not really a toxin, but a complete chemical that inhibits the normal action of the
infection-fighting antibodies in the human anatomy. 10 to 50 mg IV of Benadryl may be
given for the first 24 hours; for acute reaction, a medical officer can give up to 300 mg of
Benadryl IV. The wound can be especially dangerous when the wound edges become
black and purple (necrotic). The area sloughs in a few days to a week and leaves a
deep, sharply defined granular area that is surrounded by the raised edge of healthy
tissue. This area becomes quite large and may persist for several weeks while the
healing slowly takes place. One case was cited where the wound failed to heal and it
was ultimately necessary to perform a skin graft. There have been two cases reported
where the brown recluse spider bite was fatal. If the victim is bitten on his fingers or
toes, there is a good possibility that the appendage will be lost.
2-9.
TARANTULAS
Tarantulas are any of the various large hairy spiders (family THERAPHOSIDAE)
that are typically rather sluggish. The European wolf spider (LYCOSA tarantula) is
popularly held to be the cause of tarantism. Early immigrants brought to the Western
Hemisphere had an unreasoning fear of spiders and the name "Tarantula." The
tarantula, known to nature as bird spiders, are nearsighted and their sharp fangs can
inflict a painful bite, but they seldom use them. They will bite only in defense against
human molestation. The treatment for the tarantula bite consists of an application of
iodine or similar anti-septic. The males are commonly encountered while traveling
across the country and are particularly noticeable as they cross highways when they
migrate during the mating season. They are of benefit to man since they prey upon
insects and should be protected rather than molested or killed.
Section II. INSECTS
2-10. INSECT STINGS AND BITES
Some insects that are not involved in disease transmission are nonetheless
medically important because of the painful and sometimes poisonous effect of their
stings. Bees and wasps fit into this category.
MD0588
2-5