ants and Hand-Dermatoses

The case is reported of an elderly patient with known previous exposure to fire ant stings, and who presented with hand-foot syndrome (HFS) in the setting of multiple fire ant stings to the lower extremities. Both hands and both feet were red, swollen, and mildly tender. Treatment was with fluocinonide cream, and all symptoms resolved as the classic fire ant skin lesions regressed. HFS was initially reported in association with acute crisis in sickle cell anemia and thalassemia and more recently as a common toxicity of chemotherapy administration. This is the first report of its occurrence in the setting of fire ant envenomization. Although recent literature may indicate a potential therapeutic benefit from COX-2 antagonists, the process appears to be self-limited, and requires only conservative treatment.

Topics: Aged; Animals; Ants; Foot Dermatoses; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Insect Bites and Stings; Male

Ant sting reactions are becoming an increasing problem in tropical countries. It is important for physicians to be aware of their possible cutaneous and systemic manifestations.. A child with a severe allergic reaction to an ant sting was examined and is discussed. This is the first case described in the literature caused by the ant Odontomachus bauri, and the biology of the ant and the clinical signs in the patient are described.. A child developed a strong allergic reaction to an ant sting. The case was not associated with a previous ant sting. Treatment with the systemic antihistamine loratadine (Clarityn) was favorable in this patient.. In tropical areas, ant stings are usually benign, self-limited pathologic processes. In some cases, however, severe allergic reactions can develop, including urticaria and anaphylactic shock. Physicians should be aware of the possible complications of ant stings.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Bites and Stings; Child; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Histamine H1 Antagonists, Non-Sedating; Humans; Loratadine; Urticaria Pigmentosa