Spiders and Scorpions

A small number of spider species are of clinical significance. However, it is important for the clinician to be familiar with the ones that are relevant, as some of their bites may lead to envenomation with specific toxins. In this chapter, we discuss selected species and locations of the most relevant ones as well as the signs and symptoms when considering a spider bite. Diagnosis is mainly based on clinical presentation and treatment is usually supportive. A few studies are available in the use of antivenom for spider bites, though, some that are available have proven to be safe and effective in severe cases. A high number of scorpion species, on the other hand, are clinically relevant for the physician as all of them are venomous. Understanding their anatomy may be helpful to differentiate species. Here we discuss their distribution, cutaneous and systemic manifestations of their sting including neurological symptoms, management of mild, moderate, and severe cases of envenomation as well as prevention, particularly in endemic areas.