Multiple hornet (Vespa orientalis) stings with fatal outcome in a child.
A case of multiple hornet stings is described with a rapidly fatal course due to the combination of massive haemolysis, coagulopathy, rhabdomyolysis, hyperkalaemia, acute renal failure, encephalopathy, hepatotoxicity and hyperglycaemia. These features of systemic envenomation can all be attributed to the toxic properties of Oriental hornet venom described in in vitro and in vivo experimental studies. Greater awareness of these features, aggressive treatment of hyperkalaemia and early institution of treatments such as peritoneal dialysis and plasma exchange may prevent fatalities in such cases.
Korman
S H
SH
Department of Paediatrics, Hadassah University Hospital, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel.
Jabbour
S
S
Harari
M D
MD
D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000209:etiology; D000818:Animals; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D056486:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / Q000209:etiology; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004211:Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006461:Hemolysis; D006801:Humans; D006943:Hyperglycemia / Q000209:etiology; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000209:etiology; D007299:Insect Bites and Stings / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy; D012206:Rhabdomyolysis / Q000209:etiology; D014863:Wasps