The brown recluse spider is considered as the most prevalent venomous spider. It is also called as the “fiddle-back spider” due to its dark brown violin-shaped pattern that is present on its back. These arthropods usually hide in dark, dry areas and can oftentimes make their way indoors from time to time.
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What are the symptoms?
The indications of a brown recluse spider bite can be hard to spot among infants. The initial indication of a bite is the red, round mark that is quite similar to a mosquito bite. There are two holes in the middle instead of one. At this time, the bite mark becomes swollen and develops a white ulcer in the middle.
This white ulcer can cause tissue death or necrosis. At the starting phase of tissue necrosis, a small-sized black spot develops. Take note that this spot can spread once more tissues are being consumed by the venom. A doctor should be consulted at the initial indication of a bite mark that is shaped similar to a bull’s eye on an infant.
Severe reactions
It is important to note that infants, elderly and individuals who have weakened or compromised immune systems have a higher chance of developing a severe reaction to a brown recluse spider bite.
The severe reactions include severe rashes that spread rapidly over the entire body, difficulty breathing and even death in severe cases. Take note that difficulty breathing and high fever up to 104-106 degrees F is also considered as severe reactions to the spider bites. In case the child abruptly develops high fever, lethargic, fussy or develops severe body rashes, it is vital to seek medical attention right away.
Risk for fatality
In a study conducted, thousands of cases of brown recluse spider bites are reported every year. Most of these reported cases turn out to be a different condition. This is due to the fact that brown recluse spiders prefer to hide instead of going out into the open.
Most cases of bites occur when the spider is unintentionally crushed in its hiding spot. The cases of deaths from the brown recluse spider bites occur due to necrotizing fasciitis or a severe allergic reaction to the venom. Even though the spider bite can be fatal, it is considered rare.
What to do for brown recluse spider bites
Once an infant is suspected with a brown recluse spider bite, it is vital to seek immediate medical care. If the venom is allowed to spread all over the body, it is more likely for necrotizing fasciitis to spread and trigger severe complications, even death. In addition, it is important to get in touch with the poison control center to report a case of a confirm brown recluse spider bite.