Spider bite: A current approach to management

Abstract

Although spider bite is common, most spider bites cause minor effects and do not require treatment. More significant effects result from redback and, less commonly, from funnel-web spider bites. Redback spider envenoming causes local, radiating and regional pain, sometimes associated with local or regional diaphoresis, non-specific systemic features, and less commonly, other autonomic or neurological effects. Antivenom is recommended for severe or persistent pain and systemic effects. Funnel-web spider envenoming can rapidly cause life-threatening effects, but it can be treated effectively with antivenom. Envenoming is characterised by excessive autonomic activity, neuromuscular excitation and pulmonary oedema. Clinical effects attributed to suspected spider bites such as ulcers, should be thoroughly investigated for other causes including infectious, inflammatory, vascular and neoplastic conditions.