ED MANAGEMENT OF INSECT STINGS

Allergic reactions to insect stings are a common and sometimes serious medical problem. Although most reactions to stinging insects are mild , a pool of individuals in the general population has experienced or w ill manifest an anaphylactic reaction to stings. Concern has been heig htened with the introduction of stinging species not indigenous to the United States which have a proclivity for stinging frequently. The em ergency physician needs to understand the pathophysiology of insect st ing anaphylaxis, recognize its onset, and formulate an appropriate pha rmacological treatment plan. In addition, the emergency physician must instruct the patient on avoidance of insects and on outpatient use of epinephrine. For the patient who truly has had an anaphylactic event, referral to an allergist is imperative. Copyright (C) 1996 by W.B. Sa unders Company.