Insect Bites and Stings
Description General measures Medicine treatment T63.4 + (X23.99/X24.99/X25.99/X29.99) DESCRIPTION Toxicity due to insect bites and stings usually results in local effects only and systemic effects are rare. Occasionally, hypersensitivity reactions are encountered, varying from minor local inflammation to acute anaphylaxis. Multiple bee stings can result in systemic toxicity and may require ICU ca
T63.4 + (X23.99/X24.99/X25.99/X29.99)
DESCRIPTION
Toxicity due to insect bites and stings usually results in local effects only and systemic effects are rare. Occasionally, hypersensitivity reactions are encountered, varying from minor local inflammation to acute anaphylaxis. Multiple bee stings can result in systemic toxicity and may require ICU care.
GENERAL MEASURES
- Allergic reactions may be acutely life threatening.
- Patients with multiple stings may develop delayed systemic toxicity. Beware of premature discharge from the healthcare facility.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Anaphylaxis: See Anaphylaxis/Anaphylactic Shock.
For pain:
- Paracetamol, oral, 500mg -1 g 4–6 hourly when required (to a maximum of 4 g in 24 hours)
- Maximum dose: 15 mg/kg/dose
LoE:IVb
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Adult Hospital Level, 2020-2024_Version 2.0_27 March 2025
Chapter 19 Poisoning_19.1 Insect Bites and Stings
Drugs mentioned
ICD-10 codes
- T63.4Toxic effect, venom of other arthropods
- X23.99Contact with hornets, wasps and bees, unspecified place, during unspecified activity
- X24.99Contact with centipedes and venomous millipedes (tropical), unspecified place, during unspecified activity
- X25.99Contact with other venomous arthropods, unspecified place, during unspecified activity
- X29.99Contact with unspecified venomous animal or plant, unspecified place, during unspecified activity