What should a patient with white-tailed spider bites do if his condition does not improve even after debridement and dressing?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was bitten by a white tail spider about six weeks ago on my leg. I have been to the doctor every day for dressing. About three weeks ago, I was hospitalized, and they removed the dead skin and cleaned it. I still go to the doctor every second day for dressing, but the condition is not improving. I do not know what to do, as I am worried. Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

White-tail spider bites may not cause necrosis. It may cause erythema or rash and subside in two to three weeks. Few studies have shown that white-tail spider bites or necrotic arachnidism were found to have alternative diagnoses with appropriate investigations. This demonstrates that spider bites are an unlikely cause of necrotic ulcers. For histopathology, all ulcers should be properly investigated with bacterial, fungal, and mycobacterial cultures and skin biopsy.

What about the pus culture of your wound? How frequently are you going for debridement? Which antibiotics are you using? Please get the culture of the pus or discharge for bacterial or fungal culture done.

Please consult your surgeon because he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Take care.