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Message: <blockquote data-quote="MassExodus" data-source="post: 117706" data-attributes="member: 4086">That's another issue I read about, Latrodectus antivenin actually killing some people who were highly allergic and reacting very badly to the original bite. There's papers to be found online about that as well, medical studies. Doctors were actually afraid to use the antivenin for awhile, and apparently some still are. You'd be surprised how many ER docs know nothing about venom. I've had them ask questions about spiders and venom that stunned me..the doctor on duty right now asked if my tarantulas are toxic..and he's actually a good doctor that's been practicing for 40 years. I guess that's either a statement on the rarity of spider bites, or how often doctor's have to refer to their books..I don't know..it's kind of interesting though.Edit: You would also be amused at how many people come to the ER claiming a recluse or widow bite, when they actually don't know what bit them, or if it's a bite at all..or a boil, or an abscess, or an ingrown hair, etc etc..</blockquote>