Emergency Case

A gardener comes to the emergency department 1 day after he has been stung by a wasp. He complains of a large, warm, red, itchy swelling on his left forearm. Is it an allergic reaction? Is infection a concern? What therapies are helpful? Who should receive venom immunotherapy? Stinging insects are arthropods, of the class Insecta,order Hymenoptera. Hymenoptera are among the most highly socialized creatures and are thought to be more cooperative than most humans. There are two major subgroups: vespids (wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and fire ants) and apids (honeybees and bumblebees). Vespids tend to sting with minimal provocation, are capable of stinging repeatedly, and are often attracted to bright colours and strong odours (cosmetics, swee