This poisoning is from a bite by a black widow spider (Latrodectus mactans).
Poisonous Ingredient:
The venom of the black widow spider contains neurotoxins that make people sick.
Where Found:
Black widows are found throughout the U.S., but predominantly in the South and West. They are usually found in barns, sheds, stone walls, fences, woodpiles, porch furniture, and other outdoor structures.
References:
Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2002: 794-795.
Auerbach PS. Wilderness Medicine. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:829-832.
Review Date: 2/13/2006
Reviewed By: Stephen C Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA MedicalCenter, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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