spider bite

spider bite

Etymology: ME, spithre + AS, bitan + L, potio, drink

a puncture wound produced by the bite by any of nearly 60 species of venomous spiders found in North America. Most spiders have fangs that are too short or fragile to penetrate the skin, but some are dangerous to humans. These include the black widow, Latrodectus mactans; the brown recluse, Loxosceles reclusa; and species of jumping spiders and tarantulas. Spider venom may contain enzymatic proteins, including peptides that may affect neuromuscular transmission or cardiovascular function.

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spider [spi´der]

1. an arthropod of the class Arachnida.

2. vascular spider.

spider bite in the United States, the two spiders whose bites are most likely to cause a serious reaction are the black widow spider(Latrodectus mactans) and the brown recluse spider(Loxosceles reclusa). Signs and symptoms are associated with the effects of injection of the venom and include pain at the injection site, weakness, muscle pain and cramps, elevated blood pressure, and restlessness. Bites by these spiders must be treated promptly and effectively. First aid is the same as that for a snakebite and includes the following:

1. Wash the wound with soap and water and apply a clean dressing.

2. Apply a constricting band between the area of the bite and the heart.

3. Keep the person calm and transport him to the hospital or medical facility as soon as possible.

4. If swelling becomes apparent, apply a cold compress to the area.

black widow spider Latrodectus mactans, a poisonous spider found in North America; see spider bite.

brown recluse spider Loxosceles reclusa, a poisonous spider found in North America; see spider bite.

vascular spider a telangiectasis due to dilatation and branching of superficial cutaneous arteries, which presents as a bright red central portion with branching radiations, the whole somewhat resembling the configuration of a spider. The lesions may occur singly or in large numbers, and may be nevoid or acquired, being commonly associated with pregnancy and liver disease. Called also nevus araneus, spider nevus, and spider telangiectasia.