Necrotizing arachnidism is a complication of the brown recluse spider bite which is characterized by progressive necrosis and inflammation of the tissue at the site of the spider bite. Diagnosis in most cases is purely presumptive and often made in retrospect by the signs and symptoms that later develop. The degree of the clinical response is relative to the amount of venom injected, location of the bite (with high fat areas being more severely affected) and the immune status of the patient.
RATIONALE: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) is thought to exhibit its effects through enhanced tissue oxygenation and possible inactivating effects on Loxosceles venom, however this remains to be proven.
DISCUSSION: One of the most difficult aspects of treating the bite is establishing the diagnosis. HBO2 treatment for the brown recluse spider bite may be promising; however, additional clinical trials would assist in gaining a better understanding of the effectiveness of HBO2 treatment.
Source: Hyperbaric Medicine Practice. Eric P. Kindwall, M.D. Best Publishing Company. 1995.
Investigational Indications
Lyme Disease | Stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury
Brown Recluse (Loxosceles reclusa) Spider Bite | Other Research Areas
Chico Hyperbaric Center
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