ants and Hypersensitivity

Traveling to different regions, one might encounter a species to which they have a known allergy, or other related and unrelated species. A first-time systemic reaction can occur while on vacation, even in those with previous asymptomatic stings. Three main groups of Hymenoptera are responsible for most sting reactions. Honey bee species are virtually identical around the world. Among social wasps (family Vespidae), the yellowjacket (genus Vespula and Dolichovespula) and hornet (genus Vespa) venoms have almost complete cross-reactivity, whereas paper wasp (genus Polistes) venoms show only partial cross-reactivity with other vespid venoms. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) confers 80% to 95% protection against related insects, though isolated species of paper wasps and yellowjackets exist in every country that may be distinct from the ones at home. Those allergic to imported fire ants (genus Solenopsis) in the United States should not react to other ant species around the world. Stinging ants belong to several unrelated subfamilies in different geographic regions, which do not have cross-reactive venom. The chances of encountering specific species of Hymenoptera at a traveler's destination vary by location, planned activities, and season. In this article, we discuss special considerations for traveling, including distribution of stinging insects around the world, risk factors for more severe reactions, ways to prepare for a trip, and when allergist examination or treatment may be helpful before travel.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Bee Venoms; Bees; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Wasp Venoms; Wasps

Hymenoptera species include stinging insects such as wasps, hornets, bees, and fire ants. Allergic reaction to the venom of these insects is a common presenting complaint for patients in primary care and emergency medicine during warmer months. Patients' clinical presentations may vary, and clinicians must identify the type of reaction to determine treatment and follow-up plans. Treatment of patients allergic to Hymenoptera venom should be individualized based on risk factors, reaction type, and associated comorbidities. This article reviews common features of clinical presentation, diagnosis, and the current mainstays in management of Hymenoptera venom allergy.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Bees; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Risk Factors

The main insects causing allergy reactions to stinging insect in humans are Apidae (bees), Vespidae (wasps, yellow jackets and hornets) and Formicidae (ants). Their venom stings are composed of various biologically active peptides and protein components, some of which can cause toxicity or anaphylaxis in humans. The protein venom demonstrate some common allergenic activity such as for fire ants and vespids, which have two common allergens that are phospholipase A1 (enzymatic activity) and antigen 5 with unknown biological activity. The common allergens seem to share some degree of immunological cross-reactivity, particularly when the sequence homology is above 70%. Therefore immunotherapeutic approaches targeting more than one specific species are of interest. Recent widespread increases of various ant species in many countries have resulted in higher number of reported about serious allergic reactions to stings. Most insect-allergy related cases have been reported for species from Solenopsis, Myrmecia and Pachycondyla genera, and their stings can often result in human fatalities. In addition, stinging ants can have serious health effects on livestock, agricultural damage adversely affecting the biodiversity of the region. This review discusses the impact of important ant species on human health in the Asia-Pacific region along with the molecular immunological aspects of the identified venoms and current status of diagnostics and therapeutics.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Asia; Desensitization, Immunologic; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Insect Proteins

Hypersensitivity reactions caused by ant stings are increasingly recognized as an important cause of death by anaphylaxis. Only some species of ants ( e.g. Solenopsis spp., Myrmecia spp., and Pachycondyla spp.) cause allergic reactions. Ant species are identified by evaluating the morphologic structures of worker ants or by molecular techniques. Ant venom contains substances, including acids and alkaloids, that cause toxic reactions, and those from Solenopsis invicta or the imported fire ant have been widely studied. Piperidine alkaloids and low protein contents can cause local reactions (sterile pustules) and systemic reactions (anaphylaxis). Imported fire ant venoms are cross-reactive; for example, the Sol i 1 allergen from S. invicta has cross-reactivity with yellow jacket phospholipase. The Sol i 3 allergen is a member of the antigen 5 family that has amino acid sequence identity with vespid antigen 5. The clinical presentations of ant hypersensitivity are categorized into immediate and delayed reactions: immediate reactions, such as small local reactions, large local reactions, and systemic reactions, occur within 1-4 hours after the ant stings, whereas delayed reactions, such as serum sickness and vasculitis, usually occur more than 4 hours after the stings. Tools for the diagnosis of ant hypersensitivity are skin testing, serum specific IgE, and sting challenge tests. Management of ant hypersensitivity can be divided into immediate (epinephrine, corticosteroids), symptomatic (antihistamines, bronchodilators), supportive (fluid resuscitation, oxygen therapy), and preventive (re-sting avoidance and immunotherapy) treatments.

Topics: Allergens; Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Cross Reactions; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings

To describe the current efforts to use biological control agents to reduce fire ant population levels, thus ultimately reducing the number of human sting and allergic reaction incidents.. Climate change and worldwide fire ant expansion will increase the frequency of human encounters and allergenic events, putting additional pressure on the public health sector. Six species of fire ant decapitating flies are now established in the United States. The microsporidium Kneallhazia solenopsae is well established and new fire ant hosts have been identified. The fire ant virus Solenopsis invicta virus 3 shows good potential for use as an environmentally friendly biopesticide because of its virulence and host specificity.. During separate founding events in the United States, Australia, mainland China, and Taiwan, fire ants native to South America escaped their native pathogens and parasites. Consequently, fire ant populations in these introduced regions pose a serious public health threat to the human populations by envenomation and subsequent allergic reactions. Specific, self-sustaining biological control agents have been discovered, studied, and released into fire ant populations in the United States in an effort to re-establish an ecological/competitive balance, resulting in reduced fire ant densities and human exposure.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Microsporidia; Pest Control, Biological; Viruses

The review summarizes knowledge about ants that are known to sting humans and their venoms.. Fire ants and Chinese needle ants are showing additional spread of range. Fire ants are now important in much of Asia. Venom allergens have been characterized and studied for fire ants and jack jumper ants. The first studies of Pachycondyla venoms have been reported, and a major allergen is Pac c 3, related to Sol i 3 from fire ants. There are very limited data available for other ant groups.. Ants share some common proteins in venoms, but each group appears to have a number of possibly unique components. Further proteomic studies should expand and clarify our knowledge of these fascinating animals.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Asia; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Insect Proteins; North America

To identify ants other than Solenopsis invicta and Solenopsis richteri reported to cause adverse reactions in humans.. We conducted a literature review to identify reports of medical reactions to ants other than S. invicta and S. richteri. Our review of medical and entomological literature on stinging ants was generated from MEDLINE and FORMIS, respectively, using the key words stinging ants and ant stings. The search was limited to articles in English published from 1966 to 2004 on MEDLINE and all years on FORMIS. We also present 3 new case reports of severe reactions to stings by 2 different species of ants, Pseudomyrmex ejectus and Hypoponera punctatissima.. Articles that concerned anaphylactic (IgE-mediated) or anaphylactic-like (resembling anaphylaxis but mechanism unknown) immediate reactions to ant stings or bites were included in this review.. Taken together, our data demonstrate that S. invicta and S. richteri are not alone in their capability to cause serious allergic or adverse reactions. A diverse array of ant species belonging to 6 different subfamilies (Formicinae, Myrmeciinae, Ponerinae, Ectatomminae, Myrmicinae, and Pseudomyrmecinae) and 10 genera (Solenopsis, Formica, Myrmecia, Tetramorium, Pogonomyrmex, Pachycondyla, Odontomachus, Rhytidoponera, Pseudomyrmex, and Hypoponera) have now been shown to have this capability.. Awareness that species other than imported fire ants may cause severe reactions should lead to more rapid evaluation and treatment and further investigation of the medical entomology of these ants.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Child; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Infant; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged

Ants belong to the order Hymenoptera, along with bees, wasps, yellow jackets, etc., they are the most successful animal genera in this world. It is their selfless social structure which accounts for their huge impact. Their effect on man ranges from the parasol ant, which makes plant cultivation untenable in certain parts of South America, to Solenopsis Invicta in the southeastern United States of America, which kill ground dwelling birds and small animals, harass livestock, and renders farmland unusable. With the exception of the Bulldog Ant of Australia (which is the size of a medium cockroach) direct toxic effects are not a lethal threat to man. Human fatalities and morbidity are related to secondary infections of excoriated stings or allergic anaphylaxis. This article reviews history and recent developments regarding stinging ants around the world.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Animals; Ants; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Tissue Extracts

Reading this article will reinforce the reader's knowledge of the taxonomy, origin, and distribution of fire ants and will increase his ability to diagnose and manage reactions caused by the two imported species, Solenopsis invicta and richteri. This review will also enhance the reader's knowledge of the available diagnostic methods and therapeutic measures, including the role of fire ant venom versus whole body extract in the management of fire ant allergy.. Information for this review was obtained primarily from abstracts and articles written by investigators recognized for their expertise in fire ant venom research.. References were selected based on their clinical applicability and relevance to the epidemiology and pathophysiology of imported fire ant hypersensitivity.. The imported fire ant represents a significant health hazard for persons living in fire ant endemic areas in the southern United States. Sting reactions range from local pustules and large, late-phase responses to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Fire ant allergen-specific immunotherapy can reduce the risk of subsequent systemic reactions. Four important Sol i venom allergens have been isolated and characterized. Clinical studies have been designed to compare the safety and efficacy of fire ant venom with whole body extract for diagnosis and treatment of fire ant allergy.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings; Insect Control; Skin Tests

An examination of the proteinases present in two very different systems is described, in order to illustrate the diversity in function of this class of enzymes. In the first case we have noted the importance of gut proteinases from the fire ant Solenopsis invicta in relation to the nutritional requirements of the entire colony. In the second we have investigated the properties of endoproteases from both ragweed and mesquite pollen, relative to their role in the development of allergies and asthma. If the function of each type of enzyme(s) is correct, then it is clear that addition of exogenous inhibitors might be useful in a) controlling the infestation associated with the fire ant, and b) reducing the deleterious effects associated with the development of asthma.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Endopeptidases; Humans; Hydrolysis; Hypersensitivity; Plants; Pollen

Topics: Agriculture; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Insecticides; North Carolina

The imported fire ant is a major insect cause of generalized hypersensitivity in the southern United States. The alkaloids in the ant's unique venom also produce substantial morbidity due to local reactions, both toxin- and IgE-mediated. Immunotherapy--with whole body extracts as well as with venom--is given only to patients with systemic reactions.

Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Central Nervous System Diseases; Cross Reactions; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings; Skin

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Bites and Stings; Commerce; Environmental Health; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Immunotherapy; Male; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests; Southeastern United States; Time Factors

One to two million Americans have a history of systemic allergic reactions to stinging insects and must live with the knowledge that future stings could be catastrophic. Recent advances have been made in diagnosis and treatment of this problem. Pure venoms have been recognized to be superior to the whole body extract as diagnostic and treatment antigens. Use of pure venoms for immunotherapy gives far better protection than whole body extract for the allergic patient and represents a major advance in the field of allergy. The imported fire ant is very different from the other common stinging insects in its venom components, the type of local reactions caused by its sting, and the fact that whole body extract from this insect seems to be as good an antigen for diagnosis and treatment as pure venom. Although important discoveries about insect allergy have been made recently, some very important questions are yet to be answered. Among these are: (1) Can suppliers of venom provide us with enough venom to treat all patients with insect allergy? (2) How long should immunotherapy be continued? and (3) Would treatment with specific antigens from venom be superior to using whole venom? We all await the answer to these and other questions with hopeful anticipation.

Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ants; Bee Venoms; Humans; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Animals; Antigens; Ants; Bees; Child; Child, Preschool; False Negative Reactions; False Positive Reactions; Female; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Hypersensitivity, Delayed; Immune Sera; Injections, Subcutaneous; Insect Bites and Stings; Insecta; Male; Middle Aged; Pheromones; Precipitins; Rabbits; Sex Factors; Skin Tests; Tissue Extracts; Venoms

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Complex Mixtures; Desensitization, Immunologic; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Male; Middle Aged; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult

Hypersensitivity to the sting of the imported fire ant (IFA) is a growing and significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Conventional immunotherapy with IFA whole body extract (WBE) has been shown to be effective; however, rush immunotherapy (RIT) with IFA WBE has not been studied.. In this study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of RIT with IFA WBE and sought to determine whether prophylactic pretreatment with antihistamines and steroids reduces the systemic reaction rate associated with RIT.. Patients with IFA hypersensitivity were randomized to placebo or twice-daily terfenadine 60 mg, ranitidine 150 mg, and prednisone 30 mg initiated 2 days before RIT in a double-blinded study. The 2-day RIT protocol consisted of hourly injections to achieve a final dose of 0.3 mL 1:100 wt/vol. Patients returned on day 8 to receive 2 hourly injections of 0.25 mL 1:100 wt/vol (total, 0.5 mL) and again on day 15 for a single injection of 0.5 mL 1:100 wt/vol. Efficacy of the protocol was determined on day 22, a pair of IFA sting challenges being performed 2 hours apart.. Fifty-nine patients were enrolled into the study; a total of 58 patients (age range, 18 to 49 years) initiated the 2-day RIT. Only 3 patients (5.2%) experienced a mild systemic reaction during the protocol. Among those experiencing a systemic reaction with RIT, there was no statistical difference between the 2 premedication groups (3.6% active and 6.7% placebo; P =.87). Sting challenges were performed on 56 patients for a total of 112+ stings; only 1 mild systemic reaction occurred (efficacy, 98.2%).. RIT with IFA WBE for IFA hypersensitivity is both safe and efficacious; the rate of mild systemic reactions is low. Premedication is not necessary, inasmuch as prophylactic pretreatment with antihistamines and steroids did not reduce the systemic reaction rate associated with RIT.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ants; Bites and Stings; Desensitization, Immunologic; Double-Blind Method; Female; Histamine H1 Antagonists; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Male; Middle Aged; Steroids; Tissue Extracts

Thirty-three adult patients who had had systemic allergic reactions to fire ant stings and 33 insect-nonallergic control subjects were skin tested with single lots of Solenopsis invicta (Sol i) fire ant venom (IFAV) and two commercially available imported fire ant whole body extracts (IFA WBEs). All three extracts were analyzed for protein concentration. Sol i II and Sol i III concentrations were each assayed by means of two ELISAs with complementary monoclonal antibodies, one species specific and one cross-reactive. Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) to IFAV and both IFA WBEs was performed on sera from all study subjects. Both IFA WBEs contained high concentrations of fire ant body proteins. Sol i II and III concentrations each varied twofold between the two IFA WBE preparations. Patients were generally more reactive to IFAV than IFA WBE by skin testing and RAST. IFAV RAST appeared to be a more sensitive assay than IFA WBE RAST. No adverse reactions occurred to skin testing with IFAV, but intradermal testing with higher concentrations of IFA WBE caused delayed large local reactions in 16 of 30 (53%) control subjects. These reactions were attributed to the large amounts of extraneous body proteins in IFA WBE. These results (1) demonstrate that skin testing with IFAV is safe, (2) indicate that IFAV is more potent than IFA WBE, and (3) suggest that IFAV may be the superior reagent for diagnosis of fire ant allergy.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Drugs, Investigational; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests; Tissue Extracts

Imported fire ant (IFA) whole-body extract subcutaneous immunotherapy (IT) is a safe and effective treatment for IFA hypersensitivity, with a recommended length of treatment of 3 to 5 years.. To evaluate long-term IFA IT adherence in patients with IFA allergy living in an endemic area.. During 2007 to 2014, patients with IFA-sting systemic reactions and a recommendation to start IFA IT were prospectively enrolled in this study. Subjects were contacted annually for interval IT adherence. Institutional review board approval was obtained.. A total of 87 subjects, ages 2 to 64 years, with a recommendation to initiate IFA IT, were enrolled. Subjects were predominantly adult (76%) and female (55%), and 30% had asthma. Of these patients, 77 (89%) initiated treatment within 1 year of recommendation; 18 (23%) adhered to a 3-year course; and 10 (13%) adhered to a 5-year course. At 3 years, there were no significant differences in adherence between male and female subjects (28% vs 19%, P = .33), children and adults (25% vs 22%, P = .79), or those with or without asthma (30% vs 20%, P = .31). Adherence in subjects with mild initial reactions was lower than in subjects with moderate-to-severe reactions (0% vs 25%, P = .05) at 3 years only. Conventional buildup and concurrent flying Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy were predictive of adherence. Reasons for discontinuation were relocation to a nonendemic area (29%) and inconvenience (27%).. This study showed poor long-term adherence to IFA IT at 3 and 5 years. Initial sting severity, buildup protocol, and concurrent flying Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy were predictors for long-term IT adherence.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Asthma; Child; Child, Preschool; Desensitization, Immunologic; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Young Adult

Jack Jumper ant venom allergy is a uniquely Australian medical issue. The stinging ant is a leading cause of insect venom allergy in south-eastern Australia. An effective venom immunotherapy-based treatment was successfully developed by the Tasmanian Jack Jumper Allergy Research group. This paper provides a synopsis of our 25 years' research journey in developing this evidence-based treatment modality.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Australia; Desensitization, Immunologic; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Pain

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy

Topics: Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Israel

Treatment of imported fire ant (IFA) hypersensitivity includes avoidance and venom immunotherapy (VIT) that reduces the risk of reactions to less than 5%. Previous studies have shown that rush immunotherapy (RIT) is safe and efficacious. It is unknown if multiple RIT procedures on individuals with breaks in VIT are safe and effective. This is a retrospective chart review of three patients who have undergone six IFA VIT rush protocols at our institution. Patients were all female with a median age of 27 years. All are active duty service members without medical problems who reside in an IFA endemic area. Reviewed protocols consisted of 10 injections of IFA whole body extract given in 1 day. Local reactions were the only side effect noted. All patients completed the protocols without further incident. Following each protocol, median VIT adherence was 9 months (range 2-72 months). Reasons for stopping VIT were deployment and pregnancy. Non-adherence is common and leads to breaks in VIT. The risk of VIT resumption in patients with previous RIT or VIT is unknown. This case series illustrates the safety and efficacy of repeated IFA VIT rush procedures in patients who for personal and service related reasons had breaks in VIT.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy, Active; Insect Bites and Stings; Retrospective Studies

Molecular cross-reactivity caused by allergen homology or cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) is a major challenge for diagnosis and immunotherapy of insect venom allergy. Venom phospholipases A1 (PLA1s) are classical, mostly non-glycosylated wasp and ant allergens that provide diagnostic benefit for differentiation of genuine sensitizations from cross-reactivity. As CCD-free molecules, venom PLA1s are not causative for CCD-based cross-reactivity. Little is known however about the protein-based cross-reactivity of PLA1 within vespid species. Here, we address PLA1-based cross-reactivity among ten clinically relevant Hymenoptera venoms from Neotropical and temperate regions including Polybia paulista (paulistinha) venom and Vespula vulgaris (yellow jacket) venom. In order to evaluate cross-reactivity, sera of mice sensitized with recombinant PLA1 (rPoly p 1) from P. paulista wasp venom were used. Pronounced IgE and IgG based cross-reactivity was detected for wasp venoms regardless the geographical region of origin. The cross-reactivity correlated well with the identity of the primary sequence and 3-D models of PLA1 proteins. In contrast, these mice sera showed no reaction with honeybee (HBV) and fire ant venom. Furthermore, sera from patients monosensitized to HBV and fire ants did not recognize the rPoly p 1 in immunoblotting. Our findings reveal the presence of conserved epitopes in the PLA1s from several clinically relevant wasps as major cause of PLA1-based in vitro cross-reactivity. These findings emphasize the limitations but also the potential of PLA1-based HVA diagnostics.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Bee Venoms; Bees; Brazil; Cross Reactions; Europe; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Immunoglobulin G; Insect Proteins; Intradermal Tests; Mice; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Models, Molecular; Phospholipases A1; Protein Conformation; Recombinant Proteins; Wasp Venoms; Wasps

Fire ants are widely studied, invasive and venomous arthropod pests. There is significant biomedical interest in immunotherapy against fire ant stings. However, mainly due to practical reasons, the physiological effects of envenomation has remained poorly characterized. The present study takes advantage of a recently-described venom protein extract to delineate the immunological pathways underlying the allergic reaction to fire ant venom toxins. Mice were injected with controlled doses of venom protein extract. Following sensitization and a second exposure, a marked footpad swelling was observed. Based on eosinophil recruitment and production of Th2 cytokines, we hereby establish that fire ant proteins per se can lead to an allergic response, which casts a new light into the mechanism of action of these toxins.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Cytokines; Dendritic Cells; Eosinophils; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Insect Proteins; Lymph Nodes; Male; Mice, Inbred BALB C

Imported fire ant (IFA) subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is safe and effective. For optimal protection, SCIT is given monthly for 3 to 5 years. Successful outcomes require patient adherence.. To evaluate SCIT adherence in IFA allergic patients in an endemic area.. Patients with systemic reactions to an IFA sting, with detectable specific IgE, who received a recommendation to start IFA SCIT were included. Initial reaction severity and demographic data were collected. Patients were contacted at 1 year regarding interval reactions to stings, SCIT adherence, and reason for nonadherence. Adherence rates were analyzed for association with age, sex, and severity of initial reaction.. Seventy-six patients were enrolled, and 71% adhered to the recommendation to start IFA SCIT. Subgroup analysis did not find significant differences. At 1 year, 97% completed follow-up for analysis, and only 35% remained adherent. Subgroup analysis did not find significant differences. Inconvenience and fear were reported as reasons for not following the recommendation to start or continue with IFA SCIT.. IFA SCIT is a life-saving therapy that is safe and effective. Despite this, only 71% followed the recommendation to start, and at 1 year only 35% remained adherent. Adherence was not statistically related to age, sex, or severity of initial reaction. Logistical constraints and fear were significant impediments.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Child; Desensitization, Immunologic; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Injections, Subcutaneous; Insect Proteins; Male; Medication Adherence; Treatment Outcome

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings

Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Bites and Stings; Blotting, Western; Brazil; Cross Reactions; Ecosystem; Environmental Exposure; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Male; Middle Aged

Systemic reactions to imported fire ants (IFAs) are known to be the most common cause of anaphylaxis in the southeastern United States, including Texas. Despite this reaction prevalence, referrals to allergists for evaluation and treatment of IFA reactions seem to be infrequent.. To evaluate the frequency of referrals for systemic reactions to IFAs in an IFA-endemic area of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.. A list of all practicing allergists in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex was generated through allergy society membership directories and local telephone book listings. Practices that performed testing and administered immunotherapy for IFA allergy were surveyed using a written questionnaire assessing new referrals for IFA systemic reactions and perceptions of referral patterns.. Of 78 "allergists" initially screened, 51 indicated that they test and currently perform immunotherapy for IFA allergy. Of these 51 allergists, 35 (69%) returned completed surveys. Based on these responses, an estimated 0.6% of new patient referrals were for IFA reactions. Sixty-eight percent of respondents indicated that none to very few of all patients in their area with systemic reactions to IFA were being referred to their office for evaluation.. Only 0.6% of new referrals to allergists' offices in an IFA-endemic area are for IFA systemic reactions. This is even lower than the estimated 2% prevalence of systemic reactions to IFA in the general population of an endemic area. Efforts to improve awareness of treatment for IFA systemic reactions for referring physicians and the public are needed.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Data Collection; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Physicians; Referral and Consultation; Retrospective Studies; Texas

Imported fire ant (IFA) stings are an important cause of stinging insect hypersensitivity in endemic areas. IFA stings are difficult to avoid, and many studies have shown high field sting rates. No studies report the natural IFA sting rate that patients experience while receiving IFA immunotherapy.. To determine the frequency of IFA stings in patients receiving IFA immunotherapy compared with an aeroallergen immunotherapy control group.. Patients were surveyed by telephone to characterize the frequency of stings, reactions, and attitudes toward IFA avoidance.. A total of 23 of 28 patients reported IFA stings during their IFA immunotherapy compared with 16 of 28 patients during their aeroallergen immunotherapy. More of the IFA immunotherapy-treated patients were stung than the aeroallergen immunotherapy patients, which is inconsistent with our hypothesis (chi2 = 4.139, P < .042). The annualized sting rates between the IFA immunotherapy and aeroallergen immunotherapy groups were similar (1.82 vs 1.72 stings per year, P < .55). The IFA immunotherapy patients were more likely to report any kind of reaction (chi2 = 9.124, P < .003) compared with the control group. Most patients reported feeling careful to avoid stings.. Patients with IFA hypersensitivity treated with IFA immunotherapy do not experience a decreased frequency of stings resulting from attention to sting avoidance. IFA stings are frequent and difficult to avoid. Rush IFA immunotherapy is a good option for many patients to achieve protection quickly.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Allergens; Animals; Ants; Child; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy, Active; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Sentinel Surveillance; Surveys and Questionnaires; Telephone; Texas; Young Adult

Ant sting allergy is relatively common within south-eastern Australia and is predominantly due to Myrmecia pilosula (Jack Jumper Ant, JJA). Venom immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in preventing anaphylaxis to the sting of the JJA, but analytical techniques to standardise the venom have not been validated. The purpose of this study was to develop assays to analyse JJA venom and apply these to the standardisation of venom prior to new batches being used for the diagnosis and treatment of JJA sting allergy. Venom was analysed by protein content, HPLC-UV, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) inhibition, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and SDS-PAGE immunoblot. The protein content in JJA venom was adjusted so that all batches were equivalent. A HPLC-UV assay was used to quantify the relative amount of the major allergen Myr p 2 and two minor allergens Myr p 1 and Myr p 3 and allergenic potency was determined by ELISA inhibition. SDS-PAGE and SDS-PAGE immunoblot were used as qualitative tools to determine the protein profile and presence or absence of additional high molecular weight allergens not quantifiable by HPLC-UV. A standardisation procedure has been developed that complies with the requirements described in the European Pharmacopoeia. Techniques used to determine the content of some of the other minor allergens could be developed, which would further improve the standardisation methodology.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Desensitization, Immunologic; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Hypersensitivity; Immunoblotting; Insect Proteins; Reproducibility of Results; Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet; Vaccination; Vaccines

Pachycondyla chinensis (Emery) (Formicidae: Ponerinae), a species introduced into North America > 70 yr ago, is found throughout Southeast Asia. Stinging of zookeepers by P. chinensis at the Greenville Zoo (Greenville, SC) initiated an investigation of this exotic species and a survey of sting victims. Eighty percent of sting victims experienced local reactions, including swelling < 5 cm in diameter around the sting site, recurring pain, skin redness, and mild-to-severe urticaria. These symptoms lasted 2 h to 5 d. Twelve percent of the sting victims reported minor reactions, including no swelling, localized redness, minor pain sensation at the time of sting, mild urticaria, and symptoms lasting < 1 h. Eight percent of the sting victims reported significant local reactions, including swelling > 5 cm in diameter around the sting site, recurring pain, skin redness, severe urticaria, and symptoms lasting 3-14 d. P. chinensis represents an emerging public health threat throughout its present range in the southeastern United States (i.e., Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia). Because of reported adverse reactions to stings of P. chinensis, further studies on its ecology and medical and veterinary importance need to be undertaken.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Public Health; Southeastern United States

We investigated ant sting related fatalities in Australia over the period 1980-1999. Data was obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and state coronial authorities. Six ant sting-related fatalities were identified, five in Tasmania and one in New South Wales. All were males aged between 40 and 80-years-of-age and most (5/6) had prior histories of jumper or bull ant (Myrmecia spp.) venom allergy. However, none of the deceased carried injectable adrenaline and most died within 20 min of a single sting. Significant cardiopulmonary co-morbidities were identified in all cases and, in addition, moderate-severe laryngeal oedema and coronary atherosclerosis was observed in most (4/6) cases at autopsy. Where ascertained, Myrmecia ant venom specific immunoglobulin E antibodies levels were always elevated and fell into two distinct patterns of immunoreactivity. Adult Tasmanian males with a prior history of ant venom allergy and cardiopulmonary co-morbidities are therefore at highest risk of a fatal outcome from ant stings. Deaths may be avoided by the early recognition of anaphylaxis and self-treatment with adrenaline as well as by the development of purified Myrmecia ant venom immunotherapy.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Australia; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Serine Endopeptidases; Tryptases

Individuals from the suburb of Benha City and some adjacent villages were presented with various degrees of skin allergy. In addition, chiildren who spend the night (sleep) on the floor suffered generalized lymphadenopathy, with or without fever. The patients were successfully treated with carbolic acid (1:25). Besides, oral anti-histamine (H1) and systemic antibiotics were indicated in the complicated cases. In the concrete houses of the patients, a huge number of the large ants (mainly Catagliphus bicolar) were found moving here and there, particularly in animal house included indoors. Spreading or burning dried leaves of camphor tree proved to an effective repellent for the ants. Discussion focused on the medical importance of ants.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ants; Child; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis; Egypt; Female; Fever; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Repellents; Lymphatic Diseases; Male; Middle Aged; Phenol; Plant Leaves

In Switzerland, unlike other countries, allergic reactions to ants are a rare phenomenon when compared to the well known allergies to bee and wasp venom. In this report we present a series of case reports and a review of the different types of allergy to ants. Due to increased travel and heterogeneity of the population, we have observed several patients with sensitisation or allergy to the venom of imported fire ants (Solenopsis), a species of ant found in the Americas. Furthermore, allergic reactions to bites of the mound-building wood ant (Formica rufa), whose habitat is Central and Northern Europe, have been documented. Whereas reactions to fire ants can be life-threatening, reactions to mound-building wood ants have led to marked local reactions and in 2 cases to dyspnoea and wheezing. These reactions could be due either to primary sensitisation to ant venom or cross-reactivity in the presence of an allergy to wasp venom. Evaluation of patients presenting with a potential ant venom allergy includes a detailed personal history, skin testing and determination of specific IgE. However, to date only extracts from fire ants are commercially available for diagnostic tests. In the light of our observations we assume cross-reactivity between the venoms of fire ants and mound-building wood ants, and it therefore seems appropriate to use fire ant diagnostics in determining sensitisation to mound-building wood ants. In patients with severe fire ant-venom allergy we recommend desensitisation by immunotherapy, whereas in patients presenting with minor allergic reactions, e.g. after bites by mound-building wood ants, we provide the patients with emergency medication. Since current knowledge of ant allergies in Europe is limited, further studies are warranted.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Child; Cross Reactions; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Male; Middle Aged; Species Specificity; Switzerland; Wasp Venoms

Imported fire ants are a common cause of insect venom hypersensitivity in the Southeastern United States.. The purpose of this study was to determine the most frequent insect cause for evaluation in a Hymenoptera hypersensitivity clinic in an area endemic for the imported fire ants.. This was a retrospective study reviewing all patients seen in a venom clinic at a large teaching hospital.. Of the 703 patients evaluated, between 1985 and 1995, 515 (73%) had reactions consistent with systemic anaphylaxis for which a determination of specific IgE was appropriate. Of the 703 patients seen, 315 (45%) had a positive history and skin test positivity and were offered specific immunotherapy. This was 61% of those individuals skin tested. Of the total patients seen, imported fire ants were responsible for 42% of the visits to the clinic and accounted for 59% of the total immunotherapy that was begun in this endemic area.. In areas endemic for the imported fire ants, the most frequent cause of Hymenoptera hypersensitivity is the imported fire ant.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Infant; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Retrospective Studies; Skin Tests; Texas

In the United Arab Emirates the sting of the Pachycondyla sennaarensis ant (PSA) causes allergic reactions in certain persons. It is a common problem and is becoming a public health hazard. Up to now the diagnosis has been based only on the history, because the mechanism of the reaction was not yet established.. The aim of our study was to prepare an allergenic extract that would be used for skin tests and to prepare a reagent for specific IgE titration. Results of both skin tests and specific IgE were to be compared with the clinical history.. We studied 31 patients with anaphylactic reactions and performed clinical examinations, skin tests, and specific IgE antibody titrations. A control group of 22 subjects were also studied.. In 30 of 31 patients (97%) findings of PSA skin tests and/or specific IgE were positive. In the control groups PSA skin test results were negative in 86% and negative for specific IgE in 68%.. The study shows that the mechanism of the reaction to the sting of the PSA is a type I IgE-mediated hypersensitivity and that the diagnosis can now be confirmed by skin tests and specific IgE determination.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Insect Bites and Stings; Skin Tests

Imported fire ants (IFA) are a common cause of insect venom hypersensitivity in the southeastern United States. The purpose of this study was to determine the sting attack rate and development of specific IgE in an unsensitized population.. Study participants consisted of 137 medical students with limited exposure to IFA-endemic areas who were temporarily training in San Antonio, Tex. Subjects were surveyed for prior IFA exposure with a questionnaire, and IFA-specific IgE was evaluated with RAST and intradermal skin testing. Evaluations were performed on arrival and reported at departure from the endemic area 3 weeks later.. One hundred seven subjects completed the study. Field stings were reported in 55 subjects, resulting in a sting attack rate of 51%. In these 55 subjects 53 (96%) reported a pustule or a small local reaction at the sting site, one (2%) reported an isolated large local reaction, and none reported a systemic reaction. At the 3-week follow-up skin test and RAST conversions occurred in seven subjects (13%) and in one subject (1.8%), respectively.. Even brief exposures to IFA-endemic areas result in significant sting rates and concurrent rapid development of IFA-specific IgE in 16% of stung subjects.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Ants; Bites and Stings; Environmental Exposure; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Incidence; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests; Southeastern United States

The purpose of this study was to determine if whole body extract (WBE) immunotherapy for imported fire ant (IFA) hypersensitivity is effective. This evaluation was carried out by retrospectively interviewing 76 patients with a history of generalized allergic reactions to IFA stings and positive skin tests to IFA-WBE. The study groups consisted of 65 patients on immunotherapy and 11 similar patients who were not treated for various reasons. In addition, an IFA sting challenge was performed in 30 volunteers of the 65 patients on immunotherapy. The retrospective review showed that of the 65 patients on immunotherapy there had been 112 subsequent field-sting episodes in 47 patients. Only one sting episode in this group (2.1%) produced an anaphylactic reaction. Six of the 11 patients not on immunotherapy have had subsequent field re-sting episodes, and each has had a systemic reaction. Repeat skin testing on 31 of the 65 patients in the immunotherapy group showed persistent positive responses in five (16%), but each was at a lower dilution than initially. Responses of the other 26 of the 31 patients who had skin testing had become negative. The four untreated patients who were available for skin testing continued to have positive responses at comparable dilutions on skin testing. Sting challenges carried out on 30 volunteers from the 65 patients (all from the 31 who had repeat skin tests) on immunotherapy resulted in only local reactions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ants; Bites and Stings; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Skin Tests; Time Factors; Tissue Extracts

The specificities and sensitivities of skin test reactivity to imported fire ant (IFA) whole body extract (WBE) and IFA venom were compared with IFA WBE RAST and IFA venom RAST in the diagnosis of IFA allergy. Study groups consisted of 18 IFA allergic patients and 21 control subjects with no history of allergy to insect stings. All IFA allergic patients had positive skin tests to both IFA WBE and IFA venom. Six of 21 (29%) control subjects also had positive skin tests to both IFA WBE and IFA venom. A commercial IFA WBE RAST was positive in 10 of 18 (56%) IFA-allergic patients and 2 of 21 (10%) control subjects. Imported fire ant aqueous venom RAST was positive in 11 of 11 (100%) IFA-allergic patients and three of ten (30%) control subjects. Vespa IFA venom RAST was positive in 16 of 18 (89%) IFA-allergic patients and 5 of 21 (24%) controls. The sensitivities and specificities of IFA WBE skin testing, IFA venom skin testing, and IFA venom RAST did not differ significantly. Imported fire ant WBE RAST was less sensitive than the other diagnostic methods.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Child; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests

A survey of 5300 allergists was conducted to determine the number and geographic distribution of patients receiving immunotherapy for imported fire ant (IFA) allergy in the United States and Canada. Responses were received from 1293 physicians who reported a total of 2573 patients being treated in 28 states. Most patients were from the southeast, but some patients were reported to be receiving IFA immunotherapy in areas outside the boundaries of known IFA infestation. Although IFA is a widespread health hazard in the southeast, it appears to exert an uneven impact on allergy practice in this region. Of the 1293 physicians responding to the survey, 117 (9%) reported the use of whole body extract (WBE) in the treatment of 1746 patients with winged Hymenoptera-sting allergy. Continued use of WBE immunotherapy was reported by physicians from all regions of the United States and from Canada. The largest numbers of patients receiving winged WBE immunotherapy were reported from Texas (641), Pennsylvania (246), Florida (129), and Canada (127). The results of this survey suggest a need for continuing medical education regarding (1) the magnitude of the health hazard posed by the IFA and (2) the efficacy of venom versus WBE in the treatment of winged Hymenoptera-sting allergy.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Canada; Desensitization, Immunologic; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Surveys and Questionnaires; United States

We studied 19 young children (aged 15 to 39 months) who had had a systemic allergic reaction after imported fire ant (IFA) sting. Skin testing was performed with whole body extract (WBE) of both Solenopsis species; positive reactions to S. invicta was noted in 94% and to S. richteri in 100%. Serum was tested for total IgE level and for specific IgE antibodies by RAST with WBE and venom (V) of S. invicta. In vitro results were compared with those of 19 age and sex-matched atopic control subjects. The range of total serum IgE level was 31 to 1720 IU/ml (geometric mean 160 IU/ml), compared with 7.5 to 6756 IU/ml (geometric mean 85 IU/ml) in the control subjects. The difference between the two groups, however, was not statistically significant (p greater than 0.05). In the IFA-allergic group, the IFA WBE RAST mean binding was 13.5% (range 2.0% to 30.2%), and the IFA V RAST mean was 29.2% (range 7.8% to 46.7%). The control sera demonstrated low levels of activity to both IFA WBE RAST (0.7% to 4.8%) and IFA V RAST (0.7% to 5.9%). IFA WBE RAST demonstrated that 26% of the IFA-allergic patients had counts within the range of the atopic control subjects. In contrast, the IFA V RAST clearly separated all IFA-allergic patients from their age and sex-matched atopic control subjects. A scoring system for IFA V RAST is proposed. These results demonstrate superiority of IFA V over IFA WBE RAST in the diagnosis of allergy to S. invicta.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Antibodies; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Child, Preschool; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Infant; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests

A whole body extact (WBE) was prepared by saline extraction of ground imported fire ants (IFA). A serum pool from rabbits immunized with the WBE elicited 31 precipitates on crossed immunoelectrophoresis. Crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis was performed with sera from 26 RAST IFA-positive subjects, 24 of whom were known for clinical hypersensitivity to IFA and two subjects, known to be hypersensitive to yellow jacket. Radiostaining was obtained to 14 precipitates, some of which were judged to be partially identical. Thus, six apparently different allergen groups could be identified. Two of these fulfilled arbitrary criteria of major allergens. Three of the IFA WBE allergens were easily identified in crossed immunoelectrophoresis of a commercially obtained IFA-venom preparation. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the IFA WBE demonstrated protein bands with molecular weight ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 daltons. An immunoblotting technique with nitrocellulose paper strips revealed binding of human IgE from hypersensitive subjects to four different bands (either single bands or clusters of proteins of similar molecular weight) with molecular weights ranging from 13,000 to 42,000 daltons. It is a notable finding that these insect allergens thus were of a similar size as important aeroallergens.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Antigens; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoblotting; Immunoelectrophoresis, Two-Dimensional; Molecular Weight

RAST determinations using imported fire ant (IFA) whole-body extract (IFAWBE) and venom (IFAV) were performed with the sera of 29 sting-sensitive patients. Only 48% (14/29) of sera were positive (percent binding greater than or equal to 6%) in RAST to IFAWBE compared with 79% (23/29) positive to IFAV, and there was significantly greater binding to IFAV than to IFAWBE (p less than or equal to 0.0002). Thus, RAST with IFAV identified 31% more sting-sensitive individuals than RAST with IFAWBE, a finding similar to that noted in studies using IFAV and IFAWBE for skin testing. We conclude that IFAV is the more appropriate allergen for use in in vitro tests to detect IFA-specific IgE antibody in allergic patients.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Radioallergosorbent Test; Tissue Extracts

Whole body extracts of imported fire ants (IFAWBE) are the only reagents currently available for diagnosis and immunotherapy of patients with anaphylaxis to these Hymenoptera. To characterize better IFAWBE of the species Solenopsis invicta, we evaluated the sera of 29 patients with systemic or large local reactions to imported fire ant (IFA) stings. Forty-eight percent (14/29) of these sting-sensitive patients were IFAWBE RAST positive (greater than or equal to 6% binding of total radioactivity added). With a pool of sera with an initial IFAWBE-RAST value of 16.2% binding, we evaluated RAST inhibition by IFA venom (IFAV), IFAWBE, and the venom component, transpiperidine. Maximum RAST inhibition obtained was 84% with 300 micrograms/ml of IFAV, 95% with 5 mg/ml of protein IFAWBE, and insignificant with undiluted transpiperdine. We conclude that IFAWBE contains large quantities of immunoreactive venom components other than transpiperidine and that the allergenicity of IFAWBE and venom resides in the small amount of protein present in IFAV.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Binding Sites, Antibody; Binding, Competitive; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Male; Piperidines; Radioallergosorbent Test; Radioimmunoassay; Tissue Extracts

Topics: Anaphylaxis; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Cross Reactions; Desensitization, Immunologic; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings

Pure venom from Solenopsis invicta was collected by having the insects sting into a capillary tube. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) demonstrated that three major protein bands were present in the venom. A prototype commercial extract was compared and found to contain the three major venom proteins and additional components as well as high potency and specificity by RAST. Immunoblot studies were performed with sera from allergic individuals with blots prepared from denatured SDS-PAGE gels and from two types of nondenaturing gels. The nondenaturing systems demonstrated the presence of two major allergens and three other allergens, each reacting with a third of the sera. Three of the allergens detected in SDS-PAGE blots were of identical mobility to the three major proteins in the pure venom sample. IgE binding to the SDS-PAGE blots was significantly less than that to nondenaturing blots, suggesting that much of the allergenic activity is conformation dependent.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Isoelectric Focusing; Radioallergosorbent Test

Fire ants (Solenopsis richteri and Solenopsis invicta) have received scant attention from individuals other than agriculturists, entomologists, and victims of the bite and sting. Since their original importation into Mobile, Alabama, these small, seemingly benign, creatures have slowly migrated throughout most of the southern United States. Not unexpectedly, physicians working in the southern portions of the United States have been confronted with increasingly large numbers of patients, particularly children, who have been bitten and envenomated by these insects. Information regarding the pathogenesis of fire ant bite reactions and an approach to treatment are provided.

Topics: Animals; Ant Venoms; Ants; Arthropod Venoms; Child; Dermatologic Agents; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Palliative Care; United States

A survey of suburban residents of New Orleans, La., revealed that 58% of the individuals who responded had been stung by imported fire ants (IFA) within the previous year. More than half of the patients stung had dermal reactions that were distinct from the previously reported reactions to IFA in that immediate wheal-and-flare reactions evolved into pruritic, edematous lesions that persisted about the developing pustule for 24 hr or more. Twenty-one volunteers were stung with live IFA, and the course of the reactions was observed. Nine developed persistent reactions after stings. These reactions could be reproduced by the intradermal injection of IFA--whole body extract in only four of these nine subjects. Biopsy specimens of sting reactions at 6 hr demonstrated the reactions to be "late phase reactions" characterized by dense fibrin deposits like those previously noted in dermal reactions to ragweed and insulin. Eosinophils were present in the sting-associated pustules only in individuals who developed late-phase reactions. These data demonstrate that late-phase reactions occur commonly to IFA stings and that this form of insect hypersensitivity may not always be diagnosed by skin testing with whole body extract.

Topics: Ants; Biopsy; Dermatitis, Atopic; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Insect Bites and Stings; Skin; Skin Tests

As the imported fire ant relentlessly expands its territory, more and more people are at risk of the insects' discomforting and sometimes dangerous stings. Thus, all primary care physicians in fire ant-infested areas should be familiar with diagnosis and treatment of fire ant stings and of allergic reactions to the stings. Fire ant venom is unique when compared with other Hymenoptera venoms, as it consists mainly of nonallergenic alkaloids that are of small molecular weight with only a small percentage of allergenic proteins. Fire ant wholebody extract, unlike other Hymenoptera wholebody extracts, retains its allergenic activity and is an adequate material for use in diagnostic testing and immunotherapy. Diagnosis of fire ant allergy can be readily made by the radioallergosorbent test (RAST) or by skin testing using fire ant wholebody extract. Immunotherapy with fire ant whole-body extract in allergic individuals can prevent serious recurrent systemic reactions.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Insect Bites and Stings; Radioallergosorbent Test; Skin Tests; Venoms

Arthropod bites and stings may cause intense pain, sometimes out of proportion to the size of the lesion. Severe reactions may arise from prior exposure and buildup of antibodies. Diagnosis often can be made from the clinical presentation if the physician is familiar with the effects of the uncommon bites and stings. Some uncommon bites, such as those of reduviids, can be treated symptomatically, but others, such as those of poisonous scorpions, call for antivenin therapy.

Topics: Ants; Calcium Gluconate; Desensitization, Immunologic; Histamine H1 Antagonists; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Larva; Moths; Scorpion Stings; Scorpions; Triatominae

Only the rare practicing physician does not see at least a few patients during the warm summer months who have come off second best in an encounter with a member of Hymenoptera or one or the other of the various species of the phylum Arthropoda. Next to children and certain occupational groups such as farmers, it is probable that the outdoor sports enthusiast is the most frequent victim of insect stings and bites. Often the victim is not sure just what attacked him, and the physician may have to make an educated guess based on the appearance and grouping of the wounds and on the nature of the patient's symptoms. Usually, secondary infection is the most frequent possibility after these attacks. However, the hypersensitive patient who suffers immediate or delayed allergic reaction poses the greater, if rarer problem.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Ants; Arachnida; Child; Culicidae; Diptera; Female; Histamine H1 Antagonists; Humans; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Sports; Ticks; Trombiculidae

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Ants; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Florida; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Infant; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged

Topics: Adult; Aged; Animals; Ants; Female; Florida; Homing Behavior; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male

Topics: Animals; Ants; Chemoreceptor Cells; Culicidae; Female; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Insecta; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; Mouth; Oviposition; Siphonaptera

It is now apparent that venom and venom components of the Hymenoptera superfamilies of Apida (honeybee) and Vespida (wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets) are becoming increasingly important in the diagnosis and treatment of hypersensitivity reactions. Stings from fire ants (superfamily Formicidae, family Myrmicinae) have also been recognized as causes of systemic reactions in man. Fire ant venom is unique in its composition, consisting mainly of alkaloids in aqueous suspension with only trace amounts of protein. This study compares the skin reactivity of fire ant venom and synthesized alkaloid components with the whole body extract (WBE) of fire ants and other Hymenoptera. The venom as well as the WBE of fire ants was found useful for skin test diagnosis of sensitive individuals. There appear to be cross-reactive or shared antigens between fire ant venom, WBE, and WBE of other Hymenoptera. Successful passive transfer of skin reactivity to nonsensitive individuals was accomplished with sera from sensitive individuals. Loss of this passive transfer by heating sera at 56 degrees C for 4 hr is evidence in favor of IgE mediating the positive skin test to the venom.

Topics: Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immunization, Passive; Insect Bites and Stings; Piperidines; Skin Tests; Tissue Extracts; Venoms

Topics: Animals; Ants; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Skin Tests; Tissue Extracts; Venoms

Allergy to insect stings may be quite serious, and occasionally lethal. Evaluation of these patients involves careful history taking. Skin testing for the stinging insects is helpful both for diagnosis and finding a beginning dose for hyposensitizing injections. According to many reports, these injections have been very effective in preventing subsequent severe reactions to insect stings. Prompt emergency treatment usually involves adrenalin injections. Insect avoidance procedures are effective.

Topics: Ants; Bees; Desensitization, Immunologic; First Aid; Humans; Hymenoptera; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Medical History Taking; Skin Tests; Time Factors; Venoms; Wasps

Topics: Ants; Cross Reactions; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Skin Tests; Species Specificity

Topics: Animals; Ants; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; United States

Topics: Age Factors; Ants; Desensitization, Immunologic; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Seasons; Sex Factors; Skin Tests

Topics: Ants; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; South Carolina; Surveys and Questionnaires

Topics: Adult; Ants; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insect Bites and Stings; Male; Middle Aged; Physicians; Venoms

Topics: Adolescent; Allergens; Animals; Ants; Australia; Bees; Bites and Stings; Child; Coleoptera; Dermatitis; Dermatitis, Contact; Diptera; Dust; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Insecta; Statistics as Topic

Topics: Animals; Ants; Bites and Stings; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Immune System Diseases