Insect sting allergy

Abstract

Allergic reactions to insect stings are problems in both urban and rural areas of Thailand.

Symptoms of insect sting allergy can be local or systemic, with both acute and delayed onset. The causative

insects are mainly bees, wasps, and ants. Patients’ symptoms, caused by the insect’s venom, differ

between each insect. Insect venoms, including protein allergens can initiate allergic symptoms or cause

direct cell injury. The diagnosis of insect sting allergy relies on history of insect sting exposure, physical

examination for local or systemic reactions, and investigation of the specific IgE of the insect allergen.

Treatments of insect sting allergy can be divided into immediate and preventive treatment by venom immunotherapy, which is the treatment for reducing severity of allergic reactions and risk of fatal reactions

from insect stings, and education about avoidance of exposure.