Bites: Animals, snakes and insects

This course, presented by Associate Professor Caterina Longo, offers an in-depth exploration of the diagnosis, management, and prevention of bites and stings, with a focus on spiders, snakes, and insects.

This course provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing bites and stings. Key topics include:
- Classification of Bites and Stings:
- Differentiate between venomous and non-venomous bites.
- Learn the mechanisms behind stings, including venom delivery by bees, wasps, and ants, versus blood-feeding by non-venomous insects like mosquitoes and ticks.
- Allergic and Systemic Reactions:
- Identify symptoms ranging from localised swelling to systemic anaphylaxis.
- Explore the pathophysiology of allergic reactions to stings and their management with epinephrine autoinjectors.
- Insect-Transmitted Diseases:
- Overview of conditions such as Lyme disease, malaria, and West Nile Virus.
- Recognize characteristic rashes, like erythema migrans, and understand treatment protocols including antibiotics and preventive strategies.
- Specific Bite Management:
- Spider Bites: Focus on medically significant bites from widow and recluse spiders, recognising signs of necrosis and systemic toxicity.
- Snake Bites: Learn first-aid measures and the importance of prompt medical attention. Gain familiarity with symptoms caused by venomous species like taipans and copperheads.
- Dermoscopy and Identification:
- Enhance diagnostic accuracy with dermoscopic techniques to identify ticks, mites, and lice. Understand the clinical presentation of scabies, bedbugs, and pediculosis.
- Practical Prevention and Treatment:
- Educate patients on preventive measures, such as using repellents and wearing protective clothing.
- Learn treatment options including topical creams, systemic antibiotics, and supportive care for severe reactions.

With its combination of expert instruction, clinical imagery, and real-world examples, this course equips healthcare professionals to handle dermatological emergencies related to bites and stings confidently and effectively.