Delayed onset toxic reaction from bee sting
Question:
9/2/2020
A 70 year-old male states that on three different occasions a bee landed on his arm or back and 48 hours later he could not use both arms due to severe weakness. He also noticed few days later severe pain in his upper extremities. There were no other symptoms such as hives or other signs. A skin test to bee was negative. Can a stinger cause such symptoms?
Answer:
The symptoms described are compatible with a delayed onset toxic reaction from venom. Treatment would need to be symptom driven. If these reactions occur without a sting, then consider further Neurologic work-up.
I hope this information is helpful.
Eric Macy, MD, MS, FAAAAI