Large local reactions from stinging insects: from epidemiology to management

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Large local reactions (LLRs) caused by insect stings have attracted the interest of clinicians for decades, especially because of their possible role as risk factor for subsequent more severe reaction. Nonetheless, the literature on epidemiological and clinical aspects of LLR is fragmentary. Therefore, we aimed at reviewing the data available so far on the argument and the clinical implications.

Recent findings 

Our knowledge on the epidemiology and risk factors of LLR relies on studies performed many years ago. All those studies and our personal observation agree on the fact that LLRs are followed by a systemic reaction in not a negligible proportion of patients (10–15%). More recent studies have underlined the possible role of specific immunotherapy, including sublingual, in the treatment and prevention of LLRs.

Summary 

LLRs should deserve a detailed diagnostic work-up, just as for systemic reactions. The prescription of autoinjectable adrenaline would seem advisable. Specific research on the predictive role of LLR for systemic reactions is needed, as well as studies assessing the benefits of treating all patients with LLR with immunotherapy.