Perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis following the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri) bite

 

Perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis following the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri) bite

Abstract

Background

Literature on systemic envenomation caused by tarantula bites, particularly from the Theraphosidae family, is relatively scarce. This case report provides a formal description of the first known instance of systemic envenomation caused by the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri).

Case Report

In this case, a 23-year-old employee of an exotic pet shop suffered from perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis because of a Monocentropus balfouri bite. His symptoms were successfully relieved with oral benzodiazepines. This case highlights the potential for serious complications resulting from the bite of Monocentropus balfouri, a species gaining popularity among global exotic pet collectors.

Ping, W., Keung, C. C., & Fung, W. O. (2023). Perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis following the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri) bite. The Journal of Emergency Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2023.12.006