Black (samsum) ant induced anaphylaxis in Saudi Arabia

Authors

• Mohammed Al-Shahwan, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, King Fahad National Guard Hospital, King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Sultan Al-Khenaizan, Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, King Fahad National Guard Hospital, PO Box 22490, Riyadh 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Tel. +966 (1) 2520088 Ext. 4175. Fax. +966 (1) 2520088 Ext. 4229. E-mail: khenaizans{at}ngha.med.sa
• Mohammed Al-Khalifa, Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Ant allergy is a rare clinical problem that ranges from local to systemic reaction and life-threatening anaphylaxis. Different types of ants including the imported fire ants, the black (samsum) ants, and others, are considered health hazard in many parts of the world. We report a 32-year-old Saudi female from Hafr-Al-Batin in the Northern region of Saudi Arabia, with history of recurrent anaphylaxis following black (samsum) ant stings and we review the related literature. This is the first report of black (samsum) ant allergy in Saudi Arabia.

Article Type

Case Report

First Page

1761

Last Page

1763

Recommended Citation

Al-Shahwan, Mohammed; Al-Khenaizan, Sultan; and Al-Khalifa, Mohammed (2006) "Black (samsum) ant induced anaphylaxis in Saudi Arabia," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 27: Iss. 11, Article 28.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/1658-3175.3681