Widow Spider Envenomation Questions & Answers

Updated: May 28, 2020
  • Author: Sean P Bush, MD, FACEP; Chief Editor: Joe Alcock, MD, MS  more...
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Questions & Answers

Overview

What are the characteristics of widow spiders?

What is the pathophysiology of widow spider envenomation?

What is the prevalence of widow spider envenomation?

What is the prognosis of widow spider envenomation?

Presentation

Which clinical history findings are characteristic of widow spider envenomation?

Which physical findings are characteristic of widow spider envenomation?

What are the possible complications of widow spider envenomation?

DDX

What are the differential diagnoses for Widow Spider Envenomation?

Workup

What is the role of lab testing in the workup of widow spider envenomation?

What is the role of imaging studies in the workup of widow spider envenomation?

What is the role of skin testing in the workup of widow spider envenomation?

What is the role of ECG in the workup of widow spider envenomation?

Treatment

What is included in prehospital care for widow spider envenomation?

What should be considered prior to administration of antivenom for widow spider envenomation?

How is widow spider envenomation staged?

When is inpatient care indicated for the treatment of widow spider envenomation?

Which specialist consultations are beneficial to patients with widow spider envenomation?

What are the antivenom-associated complications of widow spider envenomation?

How is widow spider envenomation prevented?

What is included in the long-term monitoring following treatment for widow spider envenomation?

Medications

What is the role of medications in the treatment of widow spider envenomation?

Which medications in the drug class Antihistamines are used in the treatment of Widow Spider Envenomation?

Which medications in the drug class Immunizations are used in the treatment of Widow Spider Envenomation?

Which medications in the drug class Antivenom are used in the treatment of Widow Spider Envenomation?

Which medications in the drug class Benzodiazepines are used in the treatment of Widow Spider Envenomation?

Which medications in the drug class Analgesics are used in the treatment of Widow Spider Envenomation?