Alterações oculares decorrentes de picada de abelha na córnea / Ocular changes due to corneal bee sting

RESUMO O propósito deste estudo foi reportar as alterações oculares observadas após picada de abelha com ferrão retido na córnea. Destacamos o tratamento e o desfecho de uma lesão de córnea incomum e sua patogênese. Trata-se de relato de caso e revisão da literatura de lesões oculares por picada de abelha. Paciente do sexo feminino, 63 anos, procurou atendimento oftalmológico de urgência devido à picada de abelha na córnea do olho direito há 6 dias. Queixava-se de embaçamento visual, dor e hiperemia ocular. Apresentou acuidade visual de vultos no olho afetado. Ao exame, notaram-se hiperemia moderada de conjuntiva bulbar, edema corneano com dobras de Descemet e presença do ferrão alojado na região temporal, no estroma profundo da córnea. A paciente foi internada para ser abordada no centro cirúrgico sob anestesia geral. Durante a cirurgia, o ferrão teve que ser retirado via câmara anterior, mediante a realização de uma paracentese e uma lavagem da câmara anterior, com dupla via e solução salina balanceada. Ainda não existe na literatura um tratamento padrão na abordagem de pacientes com lesões oculares por picada de abelha, sendo importantes a identificação e o reconhecimento precoce de possíveis complicações que ameacem a visão.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to report the ocular changes observed after a bee sting with a stinger retained in the cornea. We show the treatment and outcome of an unusual corneal injury and its pathogenesis. This is a case report and literature review of ocular injuries caused by bee stings. A 63-year-old female patient sought emergency ophthalmic care because of a bee sting on the cornea of her right eye six days before. She complained of blurred vision, pain, and ocular hyperemia. She had glare sensitivity on visual acuity in the affected eye. Examination revealed moderate hyperemia of the bulbar conjunctiva, corneal edema with Descemet's folds and a stinger lodged in the temporal region, in the deep stroma of the cornea. The patient was admitted to the operating room under general anesthesia. During surgery, the stinger had to be removed via the anterior chamber, by performing a paracentesis and washing the anterior chamber with a double flushing and balanced saline solution. There is still no standard treatment in the literature for patients with eye injuries caused by bee stings, and early identification and recognition of possible sight-threatening complications is important.

Trends in occurrences of accidents by venomous animals in brazil: analysis of notifications from 2007 to 2021 / Tendências na ocorrência de acidentes por animais peçonhentos no brasil: análise das notificações de 2007 a 2021 / Tendencias en las ocurrencias de accidentes por animales venenosos en Brasil: análisis de las notificaciones de 2007 a 2021

Os acidentes por animais peçonhentos sãoum problema de saúde pública que apresenta elevado número de casos anuais no Brasil. Objetivo:descrever e analisar as ocorrências de acidentes por animais peçonhentos no Brasil e suas tendências entre 2007 e 2021.Metodologia:oestudo utilizou dados doSistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação edo Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade.A população do estudo foi analisada segundo sexo, faixa etária e região de residência. A análise de tendência da série histórica foi realizada por regressão linear generalizada usando a estimação de Prais-Winsten.Resultados:as taxas de ocorrência padronizadas dobraram no período estudado (53,8/100.000 hab. em 2007 para 111,2/100.000 hab. em 2021). A região Nordeste apresentou a maior taxa de ocorrência padronizada (105,5/100.000 hab.). As regiões Nordeste, Sudeste e Centro-Oeste apresentaram maior taxa bruta de acidentes por escorpiões (75,8, 48,7 e 32,8 acidentes/100.000 hab., respectivamente), enquanto a região Norte por serpentes (54,2 acidentes/100.000 hab.) e a Região Sul por aranhas (60,3 acidentes/100.000 hab.). A taxa de mortalidade observada no período de 2007 a 2020 foi de 1,3 óbitos/1 milhão de hab. Entre as mortes registradas, 39,6% foram por picada de cobra.Conclusões:as tendências no Brasil foram ascendentes para ambos os sexos e para todas as faixas etárias. Apenas as regiões Norte e Sul apresentaram algumas categorias com tendências estacionárias. A análise dos dados epidemiológicos possibilita a identificação de populações-alvo e a elaboração de políticas públicas a fim de prevenir novos acidentes, bem como aprimorar o atendimento às pessoas acometidas por meio do planejamento da distribuição de soros antiofídicos (AU).

Accidents by venomous animals is a public health problem that presents a high number of annual cases in Brazil.Objective:to describe and analyze the occurrences of accidents by venomous animalsin Brazil and their trends between 2007 and 2021.Methodology:the study used Notifiable Diseases Information Systemand Mortality Information Systemdata. The study population wasanalyzed according to sex, age group, and region of residence. Trend analysis of the historical series was performed by generalized linear regression using Prais-Winsten estimation.Results:the standardized occurrence rates doubled during the studied period (53.8/100,000 inhab. in 2007 to 111.2/100,000 inhab. in 2021). The Northeast region had the highest standardized occurrence rate (105.5/100,000 inhab.). The Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest regions had a higher crude rate of accidents caused by scorpions (75.8, 48.7 and 32.8 accidents/100,000 inhab., respectively), while the North region by snakes (54.2 accidents/100,000 inhab.), and the South region by spiders (60.3 accidents/100,000 inhab.). Death rate observed in the period from 2007 to 2020 was 1.3deaths/1 million inhab. Among the deaths registered, 39.6% were from snakebite.Conclusions:trends in Brazil were ascendant for both sexes and for all age groups. Only the North and South regions showed some categories with stationary trends. The analysis of epidemiological data makes it possible the identification of target populations and elaborations of public policies in order to prevent new accidents, as well as the improvement of care for affected people by planning the distribution of antivenom serums (AU).

Los accidentes por animales venenosos son un problema de salud pública que presenta un elevado número de casos anuales en Brasil. Objetivo: describir y analizar lasocurrencias de accidentes por animales venenosos en Brasil y sus tendencias entre 2007 y 2021.Metodología: el estudio utilizó datos del sistema de información de enfermedades de declaración obligatoria(SINAN, según su sigla en portugués)ydelsistema de información de mortalidad. La población delestudio se analizó según sexo, grupo de edad y región de residencia. El análisis de tendencia de la serie histórica se realizó mediante regresión lineal generalizada utilizando la estimación de Prais-Winsten.Resultados: las tasas de ocurrencia estandarizadas se duplicaron durante el período estudiado (de 53,8/100000 hab. en 2007 a 111,2/100000 hab. en 2021). La región Nordeste presentó la mayor tasa de ocurrencia estandarizada (105,5/100000 hab.). Las regiones Nordeste, Sudeste y Medio Oeste presentaron la mayor tasa bruta de accidentes por alacranes (75,8, 48,7 y 32,8 accidentes/100000 hab., respectivamente), mientras que la región Norte por serpientes (54,2 accidentes/100000 hab.), y la Región Sur por arañas (60,3 accidentes/100000 hab.). La tasa de mortalidad observada en el período de 2007 a 2020 fue de 1,3 muertes/1 millón de hab. Entre las muertes registradas, el 39,6% fueron por mordedura de serpiente.Conclusiones: las tendencias en Brasil fueron ascendentes para ambos sexos y para todos los grupos de edad. Solo las regiones Norte y Sur presentaron algunas categorías con tendencias estacionarias. El análisis de datos epidemiológicos posibilita la identificación de poblaciones objetivo y la elaboración de políticas públicas para la prevención de nuevos accidentes, así como la mejora de la atención a las personas afectadas mediante la planificación de la distribución de sueros antiofídicos (AU).

Epidemiological study of bee stings in the state of Paraiba, Northeastern Brazil, from 2015 to 2019

INTRODUCTION: In Brazil, envenomation by bee sting is a public health problem due to its incidence in all regions of the country, as well as the severity of cases. Despite the medical and sanitary importance, the literature on this topic in Brazil is scarce, in the Northeast region. OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiological characteristics of bee stings in Paraíba, in the Northeast region of Brazil, from 2015 to 2019. METHODS: The current study is a descriptive and retrospective epidemiological investigation conducted through the recovery of secondary data made available by the database from the Ministry of Health Notification Information System. RESULTS: A total of 1,151 cases were analyzed, and they were reported during all the months of the period of the study and were more frequent in the regions Agreste and Sertão of the Paraíba. The victims were men aged 20 to 59 years. Most individuals received medical assistance within 3 hours of the incident. The cases were classified as mild and progressed to cure. CONCLUSION: In Paraíba, bee stings have increased in recent years, especially in regions with a semi-arid climate. In addition, this study provides data that may be used in the development of educational health actions to promote the prevention and control of bee stings in this region.

Epidemiological study of the bee stings in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, from 2010 to 2019 / Estudo epidemiológico dos acidentes por picada de abelha no estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil, de 2010 a 2019

Introduction: envenomation and deaths by bee stings have increased in all regions of Brazil. However, there are few epidemiological studies on them, especially in the states of northeastern Brazil. Objective: to determine the epidemiological characteristics of bee stings in the state of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil, from 2010 to 2019. Methodology: this is a descriptive and analytical epidemiological study conducted through a retrospective survey of secondary data provided by the database of the Notifiable Diseases Information System of the Ministry of Health. Results: between 2010 and 2019, a total of 7,979 cases were analyzed. Incidents were distributed in 356 municipalities, with the highest frequency in the regions of Agreste and Sertão da Bahia. Cases occurred in all months of the investigated years, with a greater occurrence in urban areas, affecting mainly adult men. The anatomical region of the body most affected by the sting was the head and most cases received medical care within 3 hours after the incident. Local manifestations were more frequent than systemic ones. The injuries were predominantly classified as mild and progressed to cure. Conclusions: the high number of cases and their extensive spatial distribution reveal that bee stings may be considered an emerging and neglected public health problem in the state of Bahia.

Introdução: os acidentes e os óbitos causados por picada de abelha têm aumentado em todas as regiões do Brasil. Contudo, existem poucos estudos epidemiológicos sobre acidentes com abelha, principalmente nos estados do Nordeste do Brasil. Objetivo:determinar as características epidemiológicas do acidente por picada de abelha no estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil, de 2010 a 2019. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico descritivo e analítico realizado por meio de uma pesquisa retrospectiva de dados secundários disponibilizados pelo banco de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação do Ministério da Saúde. Resultados: entre 2010 e 2019, um total de 7.979 casos foi analisado. Os acidentes foram distribuídos em 356 municípios, com a maior frequência nas regiões do Agreste e do Sertão da Bahia. Os casos ocorreram em todos os meses dos anos investigados, com maior ocorrência em áreas urbanas, afetando principalmente homens adultos. A região anatômica do corpo mais atingida pela picada foi a cabeça e a maioria dos casos recebeu assistência médica até 3 horas após o incidente. As manifestações locais foram mais frequentes do que as sistêmicas. Os agravos foram predominantemente classificados como leve e progrediram para a cura. Conclusões: o elevado número de casos e a sua extensa distribuição espacial revelam que o acidente causado por picada de abelha pode ser considerado um emergente negligenciado problema de saúde pública no estado da Bahia.

Tendência temporal e perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos no Brasil, 2007-2019 / Tendencia temporal y perfil epidemiológico de los accidentes por animales venenosos en Brasil, 2007-2019 / Temporal trend and epidemiological profile of accidents involving venomous animals in Brazil, 2007-2019

Objetivo: Analisar a tendência temporal dos acidentes causados por animais peçonhentos no Brasil, de 2007 a 2019. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado com dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan). Para a análise temporal, utilizou-se a regressão linear de Prais-Winsten. Foram calculadas as incidências por sexo e faixa etária, risco relativo e letalidade. Resultados: No período de estudo, houve 2.102.657 casos de acidentes por animais peçonhentos. Com exceção do ofidismo, os demais acidentes apresentaram tendência temporal crescente na maioria das macrorregiões nacionais. Escorpionismo, ofidismo e araneísmo foram responsáveis por 86% dos acidentes, principalmente entre pessoas do sexo masculino em idade economicamente ativa. A de letalidade foi mais elevada para acidentes ofídicos (0,4%) e apílicos (0,3%). As crianças foram as principais vítimas de acidentes com abelhas, lagartas e "outros". Conclusão: Os acidentes com animais peçonhentos apresentaram tendência temporal crescente para a maioria dos agravos e diferentes perfis epidemiológicos.

Objetivo: Analizar la tendencia temporal de los accidentes con animales ponzoñosos en Brasil de 2007 a 2019. Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado con datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (Sinan). Para el análisis temporal se utilizó la Regresión Lineal de Prais-Wisten. Se calcularon las incidencias por sexo y grupo de edad, riesgo relativo y letalidad. Resultados: Durante el período del estudio hubo 2.102.657 casos de accidentes con animales ponzoñosos. Con excepción de la mordedura de serpiente, los demás accidentes mostraron una tendencia temporal creciente en la mayoría de las regiones del país. El escorpionismo, la mordedura de serpiente y la picadura de araña fueron responsables del 86% de los accidentes, afectando principalmente a personas del sexo masculino en edad laboral. Las tasas de letalidad más altas fueron por accidentes de mordedura de serpiente (0,4%) y picadura de araña (0,3%). Los niños fueron las principales vitimas de los acidentes con abejas, lagartas y "otros". Conclusión: Los accidentes com animales ponzoñosos mostraron una tendencia temporal creciente para la mayoría de las enfermedades y diferentes perfiles epidemiológicos.

Objective: to analyze the temporal trend of accidents involving venomous animals in Brazil from 2007 to 2019. Methods: this was a cross-sectional study carried out with data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN). Prais-Winsten linear regression was used for the temporal analysis. We calculated incidence rates according to sex and age group, relative risk and case fatality ratio. Results: during the study period there were 2,102,657 cases of accidents involving venomous animals. With the exception of snakebite, the remaining accidents showed a rising temporal trend in most regions of the country. Scorpion stings, snake bites and spider bites were responsible for 86% of accidents, mainly affecting male people of working age. Accidents involving snakes (0.4%) and bees (0.3%) had the highest case fatality ratios. Children were the main victims of accidents involving bees, caterpillars and "others". Conclusion: accidents involving venomous animals showed a rising temporal trend for most conditions, as well as different epidemiological profiles.

Miasis foruncular causada por Dermatobia hominis en Ecuador / Furuncular myasis caused by Dermatobia hominis in Ecuador

Las miasis humanas son ectoparasitosis causadas por larvas de varias especies de moscas que producen distintas formas clínicas, afectan piel, cavidades y heridas. Estas prevalecen en regiones tropicales. Se presenta un caso de miasis foruncular en un hombre de 32 años, turista, infestado en una zona tropical húmeda de la región costera del Pacífico del Ecuador. Acude a consulta con un cuadro clínico de 30 días de evolución, y refiere picadura de insecto que creció hasta formar elevación indurada prurítica, no dolorosa, en piel de flanco izquierdo del abdomen. Al examen físico se observó una lesión foruncular de 3 x 2 cm rodeada de placa eritematosa con el centro abierto observándose un agujero central que descargaba un líquido sero-sanguinolento con movimientos. Por extracción manual se obtuvo una sola larva que por sus características externas se identificó como Dermatobia hominis. El resto del examen físico y exámenes de laboratorio fueron normales. Las actividades turísticas o de trabajo a estas zonas tropicales expone a las personas al riesgo de contraer miasis, por ende, es necesario información y medidas de prevención(AU)

Human myases are ectoparasitic infections caused by larvae of several fly species. They present various clinical manifestations, affecting the skin, cavities and wounds. Myases prevail in tropical regions. A case is presented of furuncular myasis in a male 32-year-old tourist infected in a humid tropical area from the Pacific coastal region of Ecuador. The patient presented with a clinical status of 30 days' evolution, reporting an insect bite that grew to form a painless indurated pruritic nodule on the skin of his left flank of the abdomen. Physical examination found a 3 x 2 cm furuncular lesion surrounded by erythematous plaque and an open center which discharged a serosanguineous fluid with movement. A single larva was obtained by manual extraction, which was identified as Dermatobia hominis based on its external characteristics. The remaining physical examination and laboratory tests were normal. Tourist and work activities in these tropical areas expose people to the risk of contracting myasis. Information and prevention measures are therefore necessary(AU)

Idioventricular rhythm and shock after a honeybee sting / Ritmo idioventricular y shock después de un piquete de abeja

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the case of a 19-year-old male presenting with bradycardia and hypotension after a honeybee sting making a review of the literature and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular and electrocardiogram (EKG) changes after a bee sting. Methods: The patient's airway was inspected and secured. Electrocardiogram with an idioventricular rhythm at 41' bpm. Oxygen was administered, an intravenous access was established, and the transcutaneous pacemaker leads were placed on the chest of the patient, then published guidelines management was induced. Results: The EKG showed idioventricular rhythm at a rate of 41 beats/min that resolved to a normal sinus rhythm after treatment. Conclusions: A full and prompt cardiovascular evaluation should be performed in all patients presenting to the emergency department after a bee sting, and published guidelines regarding the management of bradycardia and anaphylaxis should be followed to achieve successful outcomes.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir el caso de un paciente masculino de 19 años que presenta bradicardia e hipotensión después de una picadura de abeja haciendo una revisión de la literatura y fisiopatología de los cambios cardiovasculares y electrocardiográficos después de una picadura de abeja. Métodos: Se inspeccionó y aseguró la vía aérea del paciente. Un rastreo de ECG realizado al ingreso reveló ritmo idioventricular a una ritmo de 41 latidos por minuto. Se administró oxígeno, se estableció un acceso IV y se colocaron los cables del marcapasos transcutáneo en el tórax del paciente, luego se indujo el manejo de las guías publicadas. Resultados: El electrocardiograma mostró un ritmo idioventricular a una frecuencia de 41 latidos por minuto que se resolvió a un ritmo sinusal normal después del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Se debe realizar una evaluación cardiovascular completa y rápida en todos los pacientes que se presentan al departamento de emergencias después de una picadura de abeja, y se deben seguir las pautas publicadas sobre el manejo de la bradicardia y la anafilaxia para lograr resultados exitosos.

Bee sting envenomation severe cases in Manaus, Brazilian Amazon: clinical characteristics and immune markers of case reports

Abstract Bee venom is a natural toxin composed of several peptides. Massive envenoming causes severe local and systemic reactions. We report two cases of severe bee envenomation, of which one was fatal. We also describe clinical characteristics and immune markers. Both victims suffered from respiratory distress, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and shock. They required invasive mechanical ventilation, vasoactive drugs, and renal replacement therapy. Moreover, serum levels of chemokines, cytokines, and cell-free circulating nucleic acids demonstrated an intense inflammatory process. Massive envenoming produced systemic injury in the victims, with an uncontrolled inflammatory response, and a more significant chemotactic response in the fatal case.

Nephrotic syndrome after insect sting: a case report / Síndrome nefrótica após picada de inseto: relato de caso

ABSTRACT Minimal change disease accounts for up to 25% of the cases of nephrotic syndrome in adult population. The allergic mechanism has been associated with minimal change disease and allergens have been implied, namely insect stings. We present a case report of a woman with new onset of nephrotic syndrome after a non-hymenoptera insect sting, with biopsy-proven minimal change disease, that was accompanied by a pulmonary thromboembolism process. Complete remission with glucocorticoid therapy was observed, with sustained response for 6 months after discontinuation. A new exposure to insect sting in the same geographical region and season triggered a nephrotic syndrome relapse. Subsequent avoidance of the place resulted in a sustained remission for more than 4 years.

RESUMO A doença de lesões mínimas é responsável por até 25% dos casos de síndrome nefrótica na população adulta. O mecanismo alérgico tem sido associado à doença de lesão mínima a associada a alérgenos, como picadas de insetos. Apresentamos um caso de uma mulher com início recente de síndrome nefrótica após picada de inseto não himenóptero, com doença de lesões mínimas comprovada por biópsia, acompanhada por um processo de tromboembolismo pulmonar. A paciente teve remissão completa com glicocorticoides, com resposta sustentada por 6 meses após a interrupção do tratamento. Uma nova exposição à picada de inseto na mesma região geográfica e estação do ano provocou uma recaída da síndrome nefrótica. Evitar o local subsequentemente resultou em remissão sustentada por mais de 4 anos.

Caracterización de pacientes alérgicos a picadura de abeja que reciben inmunoterapia / Characterization of allergic patients to bee sting that receive immunotherapy

La alergia al veneno de abejas provoca reacciones de leves a severas con compromiso para la vida. La inmunoterapia con veneno de himenópteros es un tratamiento eficaz y protege a los pacientes alérgicos de sufrir reacciones sistémicas ante nuevas picaduras. Nos propusimos caracterizar los pacientes alérgicos a picaduras de abeja que reciben inmunoterapia. Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte longitudinal en pacientes alérgicos a las picaduras de abeja tratados con inmunoterapia de extracto de abeja en el Hospital Universitario General Calixto García de La Habana, Cuba. La muestra fue de 17 pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Usamos técnicas de estadística descriptiva: promedio, probabilidad y puntaje estandarizado, así como técnicas de estadística inferencial tales como Chi cuadrado, verificando asociación significativa entre las variables; el nivel de significación empleado fue del 5 por ciento (p˂0,05). La tercera década de la vida fue la edad promedio de los pacientes. Se observó predominio del sexo masculino y residencia en zona urbana. Alrededor de la mitad de los pacientes tenían rinitis y antecedentes familiares de asma. Todos los pacientes tuvieron reacciones locales, la mayoría se re-expusieron a la picadura; de ellos, solo el 20 por ciento presentaron reacciones alérgicas sistémicas después de la inmunoterapia. Se concluye que la reactividad cutánea al extracto de abeja se redujo con el tratamiento de inmunoterapia(AU)

Allergy to bee venom may cause from mild to severe reactions threatening the patient´s life. Immunotherapy with hymenopter venom is an effective treatment that can protect allergic patients from suffering systemic reactions to new stings. The aim of this study was to characterize allergic patients to bee sting that receive immunotherapy. A descriptive longitudinal observational study was carried out in allergic patients to bee sting receiving immunotherapy with bee extracts in the University Hospital General Calixto García, Havana, Cuba. A sample of 17 patients with inclusion criteria was analyzed. Descriptive statistical techniques were used: mean, probability, standardized score, as well as, inferential statistic techniques such as the Chi square; verifying significant association between variables. The level of signification was 5 percent (p˂0.05). The third decade of life was the average age of the patients in this study; male sex and, urban residents were predominant. Around half of the patients had rhinitis and family history of asthma. All patients had local reactions; most of the patients were re-exposed to stings. Only 20 percent of patients reported systemic allergic reaction after immunotherapy. Skin reactivity to bee extract was reduced with the immunotherapy(AU)

Acute bullous hemorrhagic prurigo: a diagnostic challenge

Abstract Insect bites and bite wounds are quite common and most often have mild repercussions in humans. Statistics on the incidence of accidents caused by insects are not available, and the skin reactions after the bites are not always known. The authors present two cases of patients with hemorrhagic blisters on their hands after tabanidae bites and discuss the factors that cause the problem and the importance of the differential diagnosis of blisters with hemorrhagic content on human skin.

Accidente por himenópteros: reporte de caso / Hymenoptera accident: case report

Resumen Los himenópteros es una de las clasificaciones de los insectos, constituida por principalmente tres tipos, la abeja, la avispa y la hormiga de fuego, que provocan picaduras con veneno, generando desde efectos locales hasta sistémicos, con repercusiones leves o mortales sino reciben una atención médica oportuna. Las reacciones sistémicas son dependientes de la respuesta inmunológica, así como de la cantidad de las picaduras. Se presentaran dos casos de fallecimiento a causa de accidente por himenópteros tipo abejas, diagnosticados por la historia médicolegal, hallazgos de autopsia relacionado al efecto sistémico del veneno de las abejas y circunstancias relacionadas a la muerte.

Abstract Hymenoptera is one of the classifications of insects, consisting mainly of three types, the bee, the wasp and the fire ant, which cause pitting with venom generating from local to systemic effects, with slight or fatal repercussions but receive timely medical attention. Systemic reactions are dependent on the immune response, as well as the number of bites. There will be two cases of death due to an accident by hymenopterans type bees, diagnosed by medical-legal history, autopsy findings related to the systemic effect of bee venom and circumstances related to death will be presented.

Epidemiology of envenomation by Africanized honeybees in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Northeastern Brazil / Epidemiologia dos envenenamentos por abelhas africanizadas no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Nordeste do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Introduction: In the American continent, accidents caused by honeybees are a public health problem due to the high incidence and severity of the cases. Despite its medical importance, there are few epidemiological studies on this topic in Brazil, especially referring to the Northeastern states. The present study aims to describe the epidemiological features of honeybee envenomation cases in the state of the Rio Grande do Norte, Northeastern Brazil, from 2007 to 2014. Methods: Data were collected from the Notifiable Diseases Information System database of the Health Department of Rio Grande do Norte. Results: We analyzed a total of 2,168 cases. Cases occurred in all months of the years studied, reaching higher frequencies from June to October. Most incidents happened in urban areas and involved men, with victims aged between 20 and 39 years. Victims were mainly stung on the head and hand, and they received medical care predominantly within 3 hours after the injury. Local manifestations were more frequent than systemic ones. Clinically, most cases were mild and progressed to cure. Conclusion: The high number of honeybee sting cases shows that Rio Grande do Norte may be an important risk area for such injury.

RESUMO: Introdução: No continente americano, os acidentes causados por abelhas são um problema de saúde pública devido à alta incidência e severidade dos casos. Apesar de sua importância médica, há poucos estudos epidemiológicos sobre esse tema no Brasil, especialmente referentes aos estados do Nordeste. O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever as características epidemiológicas dos casos de envenenamento por abelhas no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, no Nordeste do Brasil, de 2007 a 2014. Metodologia: Os dados foram coletados da base de dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação da Secretaria Estadual de Saúde do Rio Grande do Norte. Resultados: Um total de 2.168 casos foram analisados. Os casos mostraram distribuição em todos os meses dos anos estudados, com maior frequência de junho a outubro. A maioria dos casos ocorreu em áreas urbanas e envolveu homens, com vítimas entre 20 e 39 anos de idade. As vítimas foram principalmente picadas na cabeça e na mão, e receberam assistência médica predominantemente dentro de 3 horas após serem picadas. As manifestações locais eram mais frequentes do que as sistêmicas. Clinicamente, a maioria dos casos foi leve e progrediu para cura. Conclusão: O alto número casos de picadas de abelhas mostra que o Rio Grande do Norte pode ser uma importante área de risco para tal incidente.

Infectivity of Simulium damnosum s.l. and therapeutic coverage of ivermectin distribution 10 years post treatment around Owena Dam, Ondo state, Nigeria

ABSTRACT Background: Studies related to infectivity status of insect vectors are seen as necessities in understanding the epidemiology of vector-borne diseases and planning effective control measures. This study assessed the infectivity ofSimulium damnosum s.l. around Owena River as well as evaluated therapeutic coverage of Ivermectin distribution in the area. Method: Human landing sampling method was used to collect adult flies on human attractants from 07:00 to 18:00 for two consecutive days a month for three months (July 2016 - September 2016). Parity assessment was conducted to determine the age of fly populations. Parous flies were further dissected to detect the presence or absence ofOnchocerca larvae. Biting rates and transmission potentials were calculated using standard methods. A quantitative survey was carried out to determine the therapeutic coverage and compliance to ivermectin treatment for the control of Onchocerciasis in the study area using standard household coverage questionnaires. Results: A total of 914 adult female flies were collected during the study period. The daily biting rate (DBR) varied from 146 fly per man day (FMD) in July to 162.5 FMD in August. The monthly biting rate (MBR) was lowest in September (2170 bites per man per month) but highest in August (3358.3 bites per man per month). MBD ranged from 13.23 fly per man hour (FMH) in July to 14.77 FMH in August. The results indicated that the majority of the flies collected at the sampling points were nulliparous [685 (74.95%)] while others were parous [229 (25.05%)]. The biting activity of the flies showed a marked decrease in population in August compared to July which later increased in September. Infection rates varied from 2 (0.7%) in July to 7 (2.2%) in August while the infectivity rate during the study ranged from zero (July and September) to 3 (1.0%) in August. Conclusion: Despite the years of treatment of onchocerciasis in Owena community, there were still some infective flies capable of transmitting O. volvolus. This could be due to the low rate of therapeutic coverage as a result of non-compliance in the community for various reasons earlier stated.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices about dengue among pupils from rural schools in Colombia / Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre dengue en estudiantes de escuelas rurales en Colombia

Abstract Introduction: Dengue is a public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Studies on dengue in rural areas are scarce since the disease is considered mainly urban. Objective: To determine the knowledge (K), attitudes (A) and practices (P) of dengue in an endemic area in Colombia. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 515 pupils (7-16 years old) in 34 rural schools in Anapoima and La Mesa municipalities during 2011. Each KAP category was evaluated independently by a scoring system and then categorized into high, medium or low. Results: Pupils recognized knowledge variables such as the symptoms (fever, bone pain), transmission route (mosquito bites), and mosquito breeding sites (uncovered wáter tanks, solid waste). Average scores on attitude were high in both municipalities indicating a well-developed perception of disease severity. Seeking treatment in medical centers and self-medication for fever management and the use of mosquito net and space-spraying of insecticides were the most frequently identified practices. Discussion: This is the first KAP dengue study performed in a rural area in Colombia and as such it contributes to the understanding of dengue perceptions by the inhabitants of these areas. It showed a medium level of knowledge about dengue and a lower level of preventive practices in pupils from rural schools. It also showed that pupils considered space-spraying as crucial for vector control. The presence of the vector in rural areas of the country underlines the need to improve surveillance and education to more effectively control the vector and promote prevention methods including community participation.

Resumen Introducción. El dengue es un problema de salud pública en las regiones tropicales y subtropicales del mundo. Los estudios sobre la enfermedad en áreas rurales son escasos debido a que se presenta principalmente en los núcleos urbanos. Objetivo. Determinar los conocimientos, las actitudes y las prácticas sobre el dengue en un área rural endémica en Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal con 515 estudiantes, entre los 7 y los 16 años de edad en 34 escuelas rurales de los municipios de Anapoima y La Mesa en el 2011. Cada categoría se evaluó por separado con un puntaje clasificado como alto, medio o bajo. Resultados. Los estudiantes reconocieron los síntomas (fiebre, dolor de huesos), la ruta de transmisión (picadura de mosquitos) y los criaderos (depósitos de agua destapados, residuos sólidos). El promedio de los puntajes de actitudes fue alto en ambos municipios, lo que indica que percibían la gravedad del dengue. Las prácticas más frecuentes de tratamiento de la fiebre fueron la consulta médica y la automedicación, en tanto que los métodos de control más frecuentes fueron el uso de mosquiteros y el rociamiento con insecticidas. Discusión. Este es el primer estudio de conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre el dengue en un área rural de Colombia. Los resultados contribuyen a entender las percepciones de la enfermedad en sus habitantes y evidenciaron niveles medios de conocimiento y puntuaciones bajas en cuanto a las prácticas entre los estudiantes de las escuelas rurales. Los estudiantes consideraron que la fumigación es importante para el control del vector. La presencia del mosquito en áreas rurales del país resalta la necesidad de mejorar la vigilancia y la educación para lograr un control efectivo del vector y promover métodos de prevención que incluyan la participación comunitaria.

Unusual vaginal bleeding due to a leech bite in a girl from a tropical area: a case report

Abstract This study describes the isolation of a leech following the presentation of unusual vaginal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding in children due to a leech bite is very rare. This is the first report of severe bleeding in a virgin 14-year-old girl from Mashhad, Iran due to the presence of a leech in the vagina.

Honey bee envenoming in Santa Catarina, Brazil, 2007 through 2017: an observational, retrospective cohort study

Abstract INTRODUCTION: We evaluated the epidemiological and clinical profile of reported cases of bee sting incidents in Santa Catarina, Brazil. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included all reported cases of bee sting incidents among the population of Santa Catarina from 2007 to 2017. RESULTS: In total, 8,912 cases were reported, corresponding to an overall rate of 12.3/100,000 population. The mean age was 29,8 years with 60.2% men. The lethality rate was 0.2%. CONCLUSIONS: Santa Catarina has a high incidence rate of bee stings, which is higher than the national average. The data presented in this study may be underestimated.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner sign: a hallmark of flea and bedbug bites

Abstract: Human, dog, and cat fleas, as well as bedbugs, feed by biting their victims, causing acute prurigo, which is aggravated in sensitized victims (papular urticaria). The lesions appear in the classic "breakfast, lunch, and dinner" pattern. There are two main explanations: the parasites "map" the skin area in search of the best places to bite, and their removal when victim scratches, and then reattach to the skin. Treatments aim to control pruritus, as well as hypersensitivity reactions when necessary. Prevention is based on environmental control measures. The "breakfast, lunch, and dinner" sign is a definitive marker for diagnosis and the parasite´s identification and control.

Multiple bee stings, multiple organs involved: a case report

Abstract Accidents related to Africanized honey bees are growing globally and are associated with multiple stings owing to the aggressive behavior of this species. The massive inoculation of venom causes skin necrosis and rhabdomyolysis leading to renal failure. Anaphylactic manifestations are more common and are treated using well-defined treatment protocols. However, bee venom-induced toxic reactions may be serious and require a different approach. We report the case of a 3-year-old child, which would help clinicians to focus on the treatment approach required after an incident involving multiple bee stings.

Domestic infestation by Sclerodermus sp. with associated skin manifestation

Abstract: Sclerodermus sp. is an aculeate insect (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae), measuring 2-4 mm in length. It is a parasitoid and needs termites as hosts to complete its life cycle. It is found in a wide variety of woods and may accidentally sting humans who come near affected wooden objects. A 50-year-old woman presented two episodes of intense pruritic lesions. Clinical diagnosis of insect bite was doubtful since there were no pets at home, lesions had not started during summer and the patient denied rural activities. During a night episode of itching, the patient examined her bed and found 8 insects likely to be responsible for the bites. Scanning electron microscopy revealed typical features of a female of the genus (wingless and with multiple stingers at the lower end of the abdomen).