Tarantula spider bite

Clinical Features

1. Abdominal hairs may be flicked a short distance when threatened
   1. Rarely penetrate human skin but can imbed deeply into conjunctiva and cornea
2. Bites can be painful but systemic symptoms other than fever are unusual

Management

1. Red eye and pain after handling a tarantula necessitates an ocular exam
   1. Hairs may be difficult to detect on slit lamp
2. Treatment is surgical removal of hairs and topical steroids

See Also

• Bites and Stings