Unusual reactions to insect venoms.

A variety of unusual, unexpected reactions have been described that occur in a temporal relationship to venom exposure, primarily insect stings. An immunologic mechanism appears responsible for reactions such as serum sickness and late onset allergiclike symptoms. In all probability, allergic mechanisms are responsible for the renal and neurologic symptoms and the delayed hypersensitivity type reactions. The mechanisms for the fatigue and malaise following venom injections and the most unusual areas of extensive erythema following venom skin tests are not known.