Centipede envenomation.
Five episodes of envenomation by centipedes in 2 patients are reported. These arthropods are fast-moving, frightening in appearance to some, and may display aggressive behavior. However, stings from these centipedes, like most found worldwide, caused no serious morbidity or mortality. Common effects included intense local pain, erythema, induration, and necrosis, as well as mild constitutional symptoms. All resolved without sequelae. Treatment included pain control, wound care, and tetanus immunization.
Bush
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Department of Emergency Medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, CA 92354, USA. famensean@aol.com
King
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Norris
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Stockwell
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D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001181:Arthropods; D001733:Bites and Stings / Q000473:pathology*; D004638:Emergency Treatment; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male