Fatal case of wasp stinging
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Date
2019
Authors
Senanayake, S.M.H.M.K.
Senarathna, K.N.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
While a 2 year and 9 month old girl was going for a bath with the grandmother, they encountered a wasp net on the ground. The wasps stung the child. She developed anaphylaxis and died during transport from local hospital eight hours after the attack.
Postmortem examination- Thirty two skin lesions of 2-3 mm wide, circular, black macules were seen on back and limbs. Every black spot was surrounded by a 0.5 – 2cm size elevated red margin. Pink fluid in pleural cavities and peritoneal cavity, shock lungs and congested viscera were the only internal findings. Blood was hemolyzed and unsuitable for serum beta tryptase test. Based on the skin lesion, medical history and evidence of eye witness, the cause of death was pronounced as anaphylaxis following wasp attack.
Conclusion- Familiarization with skin lesions of wasp stings are important for Srilankan forensic medicine practitioners. Collection and preservation of ante mortem blood samples or early postmortem blood sample with serum separation by centrifuging is advisable in suspected anaphylaxis cases for future confirmatory investigation.
Description
Keywords
Vespa affinis , Skin lesion , Wasp sting , Anaphylaxis , Envenomation
Citation
Sri Lanka Journal of Forensic Medicine, Science & Law December 2019 Vol.10, No.2, P. 32 - 36