AI Article Synopsis
- Venomous invasive ants, like the tropical fire ant, are spreading rapidly on oceanic islands, posing a risk of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis to stings.
- A case study showed a patient receiving inadequate treatment for anaphylaxis, which included an antihistamine and saline instead of the recommended epinephrine.
- The conclusion highlights the need for better public awareness and medical training to handle these increasing ant sting incidents effectively.
Article Abstract
Objective: Venomous invasive ants are rapidly dispersing throughout oceanic islands. Medics unfamiliar with envenomation or venom-induced anaphylaxis may be unprepared for the range of possible reactions and corresponding treatments. We detail the suboptimal treatment of a patient suffering anaphylaxis from an ant sting on a remote island and describe what treatment should have been provided.
Methods: The patient experienced stings on his feet from an ant later identified as tropical fire ant, Solenopsis geminata. Clinical examination revealed throat swelling without obstruction of the airway or pharynx.
Results: The patient was provided the following suboptimal treatment: intravenously-administered antihistamine and saline perfusion. Injected epinephrine should be the standard first line of treatment for anaphylaxis, even when not all symptoms are present.
Conclusion: A rise in invasive hymenopteran stings on oceanic islands is inevitable, and proactively improving public awareness and medical training could save lives.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1742-6723.14165 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!