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Information

Epidemiology: Brown recluse spiders occur mainly in the south-central United States, and their close relatives are found in the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. These spiders only infrequently bite humans, typically if threatened or pressed against the skin.

Treatment: Recluse Spider Bites

  • Initial management includes RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation); administration of analgesics, antihistamines, antibiotics, and tetanus prophylaxis should be undertaken as indicated.
  • Early debridement or surgical excision of the wound without closure delays healing.

Outline

Section 2. Medical Emergencies