Massive Vespa basalis stings induce an envenoming syndrome

Am J Emerg Med. 2021 Aug:46:625-627. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.11.053. Epub 2020 Nov 23.

Abstract

Envenoming syndrome induced by massive Vespa basalis stings is a critical condition. Severe systemic reaction may present with hemolytic activity and rhabdomyolysis, leading diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, adult respiratory distress syndrome, coagulopathy, and multiple organs failure. In severe envenoming syndrome population, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may be considered for unstable hemodynamic status. However, few studies reported ECMO in venom-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation patients. Here, we provide a case presented with pulmonary hemorrhage due to multiple Vespa basalis stings tried to rescue by veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. We also highlight that early recognition of venom-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation by checking coagulation profile in high risk patients may prevent from poor outcome.

Keywords: Acute kidney injury; Disseminated intravascular coagulation; Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; Multiple organ failure; Vespa basalis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Hemolytic Agents
  • Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Hemorrhage / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pulmonary Alveoli / injuries
  • Pulmonary Alveoli / physiopathology
  • Rhabdomyolysis / etiology*
  • Rhabdomyolysis / physiopathology
  • Wasp Venoms / adverse effects*
  • Wasp Venoms / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Hemolytic Agents
  • Wasp Venoms