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Environmental

Global Spider and Scorpion Envenomation
Background:
Spider and scorpion envenomations can occur in many environments in which the military
operates. Many arthropods possess a significant venom but lack a sufficient apparatus (fangs or
talon) to inject it into humans. Most bites and stings involve more danger from anaphylaxis, but
several species of spiders and scorpions have significant neurotoxic, cytotoxic, or hemotoxic
venoms. While most spider and scorpion envenomations result in mild symptoms, severe
toxicity and death can occur. Anaphylaxis is the most concerning initial effect. Recognize and
treat it immediately using standard acute allergic reaction therapies. Anaphylaxis from an
arthropod envenomation is not an indication for antivenom.

SPIDERS:
While many spider species produce venom, the vast majority lack sufficiently large or strong
enough fangs to penetrate human skin and cause clinically significant effects. However, spiders
venomous to humans can be found throughout much of the world. The chart below provides
information regarding clinically significant venomous spider species.
Clinically Significant Venomous Spider Species
Widow Spiders Violin Spiders Funnel Web Spiders
(Latrodectus spp) (Laxosceles reclusa) (Atrax)
a.k.a a.k.a a.k.a
Black Widow Brown Recluse Australian Funnel-Web
Red Widow Fiddleback Spider Spider
Brown Widow
Africa X X
Asia X X
Australia X X X
Europe X
North America X X
South America X X
Picture

ENVIRONMENTAL

Antivenom Available Yes No Yes

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