The brown recluse spider may have a violin mark on its back.
It is often found in the south and midwest, preferring dark,
well covered areas. It can cause a severe local reaction. In
extreme cases, severe generalized illnesses such as kidney
failure have occurred.
Initial symptoms may include:
None
Mild stinging
Occasional severe pain
Later (hours to days):
Area forms enlarging deep ulcer
Fever in some individuals
Rash in some individuals
Examination:
- Necrotic ulcer (means tissue in
skin and below is significantly
injured)
If mild (determined by a
physician), no treatment is necessary.
Expanding/necrotic lesions
Prednisone
Surgical debridement
Antivenom and dapsone may help,
although they are currently considered purely
experimental.
See your primary care physician or a dermatologist as soon as possible.
