Jump to content

Arthropod bites and stings

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by PC78 (talk | contribs) at 19:16, 17 March 2019 (add hatnote). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

"Biting fly" redirects here. For the South Korean film, see Biting Fly.
Arthropod bites and stings
SpecialtyEmergency medicine

Many species of arthropods (insects, arachnids and others) regularly or occasionally bite or sting human beings. Insect saliva contains anticoagulants and enzymes that cause local irritation and allergic reactions.[1] Insect venoms can be delivered by their stingers, which often are modified ovipositors, or by their mouthparts. Insect, spider and scorpion venom can cause serious injury or death. Dipterans account for the majority of insect bites, while hymenopterans account for the majority of stings. Among arachnids spider bites and mite bites are the most common. Arthropods bite or sting humans for a number of reasons including feeding or defense. Arthropods are major vectors of human disease, with the pathogens typically transmitted by bites.

Insects

Further information: Insect bites and stings

Diptera (True flies)

Hymenoptera

Siphonaptera (Fleas)

Phthiraptera (Lice)

Other insects

Arachnids

Spiders

Main article: Spider bite

Mites

Further information: Acariasis

Scorpions

Further information: Scorpion toxin
  • All species sting

Myriapoda

References

  1. ^ Atkins, Michael D. (1978). Insects in Perspective. Prentice Hall. p. 359. ISBN 978-0-02-304500-4. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Arthropod_bites_and_stings&oldid=888225035"