What is the general local reaction to bites and stings?

What is the general local reaction to bites and stings?

• A. Pain only
• B. Erythema and edema only
• C. Pain, Erythema, Edema, Pruritus
• D. Nausea and vomiting

Answer: (C)

Local reactions to bites and stings are driven by inflammatory mediators at the site, producing a set of skin signs. Pain comes from tissue irritation and venom components; erythema from vasodilation; edema from increased vascular permeability letting fluid into the tissue; and pruritus from histamine and other mediators. Nausea and vomiting aren’t typical of a local reaction and would suggest systemic involvement or another issue. So the common local reaction includes pain, redness, swelling, and itching.

Local reactions to bites and stings are driven by inflammatory mediators at the site, producing a set of skin signs. Pain comes from tissue irritation and venom components; erythema from vasodilation; edema from increased vascular permeability letting fluid into the tissue; and pruritus from histamine and other mediators. Nausea and vomiting aren’t typical of a local reaction and would suggest systemic involvement or another issue. So the common local reaction includes pain, redness, swelling, and itching.