Multiorgan failure following mass wasp stings

South Med J. 2011 May;104(5):378-9. doi: 10.1097/SMJ.0b013e318213ebee.

Abstract

Wasp bites usually bring temporary discomfort and pain, but on occasion, they can cause serious infections and fatal allergic reactions. We report on a patient who experienced massive wasp stings and developed multiple organ failure, including acute kidney, hepatic failure, and circulatory collapse 4 days later. He was treated with aggressive fluid resuscitation, inotropic agent, intravenous injection of steroids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and hemodialysis. After intensive treatment, his liver function recovered one month later. Recovery of renal function was delayed, and the patient needed temporary regular hemodialysis. The pathology of kidney biopsy showed acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. This case shows that toxic reactions following massive wasp attacks may happen several days after the fact and result in severe, multiorgan system dysfunction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Critical Care
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans
  • Insect Bites and Stings / complications*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Organ Failure / etiology*
  • Multiple Organ Failure / therapy
  • Renal Dialysis
  • Renal Insufficiency / etiology
  • Renal Insufficiency / therapy
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wasps*