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Introduction

Arthropods are a diverse group of invertebrates, including insects, spiders, and mites, that are ubiquitous in the environment.  Although many interactions between arthropods and humans are benign, some arthropods can inflict painful and/or dangerous bites.  This article provides an overview of major arthropod bites and infestations.

Spiders

Spider bites are generally innocuous, but certain species, notably the brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa) ( Table 1) and the black widow (Latrodectus mactans), can inflict significant harm.

  • Brown recluse spider venom causes primarily local tissue necrosis, but it can also lead to systemic complications such as hemolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and rhabdomyolysis.  The bite initially appears as a small, red papule or plaque with central pallor.  In most cases, the wound heals without intervention within days to weeks.  However, in a minority of patients (~10%), a deep skin ulcer may develop at the bite site, with a necrotic center that can progress to an eschar (

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Tables

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