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Clinical Severity of Phoneutria (Banana Spider) Envenomation

Description

Spiders of the genus Phoneutria are found in South America. Their presence in shipments of bananas resulted in the nickname of "banana spider". Envenomation may range from mild to severe and is termed phoneutrism. The venom contains serotonin, histamine and other polypeptides.


 

Findings at the site of the sting:

(1) burning pain, which may spread to affect the entire limb

(2) swelling

(3) hyperemia

(4) sweating in the skin of the affected limb

 

Systemic Reaction

Findings

mild (90% of cases)

tachycardia

agitation

moderate (9% of cases)

arterial hypertension

vomiting

sialorrhea

excessive sweating (sudoresis, hyperhidrosis)

priapism

severe (< 1% of cases)

bradycardia

cardiac arrhythmias

acute pulmonary edema

arterial hypotension

shock

diarrhea

 


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