A potential life-threatening Asian funnel-web spider bite (Macrothele gigas) in central Taiwan. (15th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Luo, Yi; Mao, Yan-Chiao; Liu, Po-Yu; Chiang, Liao-Chun; Lai, Kuo-Lung; Chien, Ju-Ying
• Is Part Of: Toxicon. Volume 213(2022)
• Page Start: 83
• Page End: 86
• Publication Date: 2022-07-15
• Subjects: Macrothele gigas -- Asian funnel-web spider -- Envenomation; Toxins -- Periodicals; Venom -- Periodicals; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.04.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0041-0101

Abstract

Abstract: Five funnel-web spiders in the genus Macrothele are widely distributed to Taiwan. We herein reported the severe case of a woman bitten by a male Macrothele gigas who present with autonomic (i.e., profuse sweating and piloerection), cardiovascular (hypertension and tachycardia), and neurologic effects (perioral numbness) in addition to local tissue swelling and regional limb pain. Morphine and ampicillin/sulbactam were administered. Her cardiovascular, neurologic, and local symptoms gradually improved, and thus was discharged 24 h post-bite. However, persistent diaphoresis and piloerection lasted for at least 3 days, and pre-renal azotemia was suspected. Due to the risk of severity and death reported for the Australian funnel web spider bites, we suggest patients bitten by an Asian funnel-web spider be carefully monitored and resuscitation performed as indicated. Highlights: Information on the diagnosis and management of the Asian funnel-web spiders' bites remains limited. The patient bitten by Macrothele gigas (Asian funnel-web spider) developed cardiovascular, neurologic, and autonomic effects. Specific antivenom is unavailable in Taiwan. Immediately applying pressure immobilization and transporting the patient to the emergency department are recommended.