title: A prospective study of the natural history of large local reactions after Hymenoptera stings in children.
abstract: Large local reactions are a frequent occurrence after insect stings. We prospectively studied the demography, immunology, and significance of these reactions in the pediatric age group. Most children (83%) who have had large local reactions have positive skin test results to one or more venoms. Elevated amounts of venom-specific IgE antibody are usually present. Over 3 to 5 years, allergic sensitivity declines, as evidenced by less positive skin test results and lower levels of antivenom IgE antibodies. Most significantly, of 113 repeat stings, only 2% resulted in a systemic reaction.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000917:Antibody Formation; D001516:Bees / Q000276:immunology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D006927:Hymenoptera / Q000276:immunology*; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000276:immunology; D007299:Insect Bites and Stings / Q000150:complications*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011852:Radioallergosorbent Test; D012008:Recurrence; D012306:Risk; D012882:Skin Tests; D014688:Venoms / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D014688:Venoms; D007073:Immunoglobulin E