Characteristics, severity and management of insect-stung patients

Abstract

We aim to assess the demographic, clinical manifestation and management of insect-stung patients. About 783 (46 male; 95 expatriate workers) records of Al-Ain hospital patients were analyzed. According to Muller classification, class I severity was common in the youngest age group. Majority (56.9) of the subjects had class III severity. Multi-variate analysis confirmed that significantly less severe cases were present in the youngest age group (0-10 years) only ( P less than 0.0005) and in male patients ( P less than 0.0005). Anti-histamine and corticosteroids, but not epinephrine, were commonly administered. Where data was available (32.6), the site of the sting was mostly on legs (16.6). Insect stings were incompletely reported, often with severe symptoms (class III), and under-treated. The severity of allergic reactions was associated with older age and female gender. Emphasis on training of healthcare providers could potentially improve the current level of diagnosis and management.