Bee sting envenomation severe cases in Manaus, Brazilian Amazon: clinical characteristics and immune markers of case reports

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2020 Dec 21:54:e20200319. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0319-2021. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Bee venom is a natural toxin composed of several peptides. Massive envenoming causes severe local and systemic reactions. We report two cases of severe bee envenomation, of which one was fatal. We also describe clinical characteristics and immune markers. Both victims suffered from respiratory distress, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and shock. They required invasive mechanical ventilation, vasoactive drugs, and renal replacement therapy. Moreover, serum levels of chemokines, cytokines, and cell-free circulating nucleic acids demonstrated an intense inflammatory process. Massive envenoming produced systemic injury in the victims, with an uncontrolled inflammatory response, and a more significant chemotactic response in the fatal case.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bee Venoms*
  • Bees
  • Biomarkers
  • Brazil
  • Insect Bites and Stings* / complications
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / diagnosis
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / etiology

Substances

  • Bee Venoms
  • Biomarkers