ants and Emergencies

Stings by the imported fire ant almost always lead to dermal wheal and flare reactions followed by sterile pustules at sting sites. Less commonly, large local dermal reactions, pyoderma, anaphylaxis, or neuropathy may occur. Such reactions have previously been associated with contact with the insects out of doors. We present two previously unreported cases of indoor attacks on individuals by imported fire ants. One patient experienced a cerebrovascular accident in association with the attack, whereas the second patient had no obvious sequelae. With those two reports, a total of four such indoor massive sting episodes have appeared in the recent medical literature. Physicians and other individuals living in areas indigenous to the fire ant should be aware that infestation of buildings with fire ants may be associated with attacks on human beings indoors. Individuals with cognitive dysfunction seem to be especially at risk for attacks by fire ants.

Topics: Aged; Animals; Ants; Cerebrovascular Disorders; Emergencies; Fatal Outcome; Female; Humans; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Recurrence; Time Factors

Ant allergy is a rare clinical problem that ranges from local to systemic reaction and life-threatening anaphylaxis. Different types of ants including the imported fire ants, the black (samsum) ants, and others, are considered health hazard in many parts of the world. We report a 32-year-old Saudi female from Hafr-Al-Batin in the Northern region of Saudi Arabia, with history of recurrent anaphylaxis following black (samsum) ant stings and we review the related literature. This is the first report of black (samsum) ant allergy in Saudi Arabia.

Topics: Adrenergic Agonists; Adult; Anaphylaxis; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Ants; Drug Therapy, Combination; Emergencies; Epinephrine; Female; Glucocorticoids; Humans; Injections, Subcutaneous; Insect Bites and Stings; Methylprednisolone; Saudi Arabia

Patients with allergic reactions to RIFA should be instructed in avoidance of RIFA and in the administration of epinephrine, given emergency identification information, and referred to an allergist for definitive diagnosis and for desensitization as indicated. RIFA are a growing menace in this country; as their habitat steadily extends north and west, no doubt a growing number of people will be affected by them. Their sting can be acutely life threatening and, as in this one case example, a severe reaction can profoundly affect the life of the victim.

Topics: Aftercare; Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ants; Education, Nursing, Continuing; Emergencies; Female; Humans; Insect Bites and Stings; Middle Aged; Patient Discharge

Members of the American Medical Association in 13 southern states were surveyed to assess the magnitude of medical problems caused by stings of the imported fire ant (IFA). Of the 29,205 physicians surveyed, 2,022 (7%) reported treating approximately 20,755 patients annually for reactions to IFA stings. Most patients were treated for local reactions, but 413 (2%) required treatment for life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Topics: Acute Disease; Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ants; Bites and Stings; Commerce; Emergencies; Environmental Health; Health Surveys; Humans; Kentucky; Oklahoma; Referral and Consultation; Southeastern United States; Tennessee; Texas