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Insect bites and stings - Management
When should I refer or seek specialist advice?
- Admit all patients with anaphylaxis, after immediate emergency management.
- If mild symptoms appear to be worsening then admission may be required for observation (uncommon).
- The decision to admit will depend upon on the type of reaction, social circumstances, and access to local medical facilities. Exercise clinical judgement in these circumstances.
- Consider referral to an allergy clinic if an insect sting or bite has caused generalized symptoms.
- The Anaphylaxis Campaign recommends referral to an allergy clinic if there is a large local skin reaction, with redness and swelling over 10 cm in diameter. However clinicians should check the referral policy of their local allergy clinic as this may vary.
- Seek specialist advice from an allergy clinic or immunologist regarding local recommendations for interim management of anyone waiting to be seen by the allergy clinic.
In depth
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