Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Unique Aspects of Bee Allergy and Reactions

  • Chapter
  • First Online:
Stinging Insect Allergy

Abstract

The honeybee and its venom are unique among other flying Hymenoptera. The honeybee has entomologic and venom characteristics that make it both more docile and yet in ways more life-threatening than other Hymenoptera. These venom characteristics and composition make diagnosis and treatment for honeybee venom allergy more complicated, and honeybee is often involved in double positivity. Ultimately, diagnosis and perhaps treatment may improve as the role of venom component resolution is clarified. Honeybees are associated with a myriad of unusual reactions, both to the venom and to their various associated substances found in and around their habitat. Beekeepers represent a special population that are a high-risk group due to their inherent risk for stings and their propensity to be less likely to decrease risk. Finally, Africanized honeybees, the more aggressive relative, are a threat in the United States both to other hives and to humans, due to their aggressive nature. Mass envenomation requires specialized treatment and careful clinical consideration.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Log in via an institution
eBook
USD 16.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD 99.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info
Hardcover Book
USD 139.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

References

  1. Onbasi K, Onbasi O, Eminbeyli L, Kaynak C. Prevalence and alternative therapy methods for bee and wasp allergy in van. Allergy. 2008;63:246–7.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  2. Charpin D, Birnbaum J, Lanteaume A, Vervloet D. Prevalence of allergy to Hymenoptera stings in different samples of the general population. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1992;90:331–4.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  3. Incorvaia C, Mauro M, Pastorello EA. Hymenoptera stings in conscripts. Allergy. 1997;52:680–1.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  4. Jennings A, Duggan E, Perry IJ, Hourihane JOB. Epidemiology of allergic reactions to Hymenoptera stings in Irish school children. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2010;21:1166–70.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  5. Prado M, Quiros D, Lomonte B. Mortality due to Hymenoptera stings in Costa Rica, 1985-2006. Pan Am J Public Health. 2009;25:389–93.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  6. Barnard JH. Studies of 400 Hymenoptera sting deaths in the United States. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1973;52:259–64.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  7. Coons BD, Quinn JM. Rates of honeybee sting hypersensitivity in San Antonio during honeybee colony collapse disorder. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2013;110:464.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  8. Ratnieks FLW, Carreck NL. Clarity on honey bee collapse? Science. 2010;327:152–3.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  9. Golden DBK, Marsh DG, Kagey-Sobotka A, et al. Epidemiology of insect venom sensitivity. JAMA. 1989;262:240–4.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  10. Novembre E, Cianferoni A, Bernardini R, et al. Epidemiology of insect venom sensitivity in children and its correlation to clinical and atopic features. Clin Exp Allergy. 1998;28:834–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  11. Fernandez J, Blanca M, Soriano V, Sanchez J, Juarez C. Epidemiological study of the prevalence of allergic reactions to Hymenoptera in a rural population in the Mediterranean area. Clin Exp Allergy. 1999;29:1069–74.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  12. Bjornsson E, Janson C, Plaschke P, Norrman E, Sjoberg O. Venom allergy in adult swedes: a population study. Allergy. 1995;50:800–5.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  13. Sturm GJ, Bilo MB, Bonadonna P, et al. Ves v 5 can establish the diagnosis in patients without detectable specific IgE to wasp venom and a possible north-south difference in Api m 1 sensitization in Europe. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130:817.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  14. Bloch G. The social clock of the honeybee. J Biol Rhythms. 2010;25:301–17.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  15. Greene A, Breisch NL. Avoidance of bee and wasp stings: an entomological perspective. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005;5:337–41.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  16. Weinstock GM, Robinson GE, Gibbs RA. Insights into the social insects from the genome of the honeybee Apismellifera. Nature. 2006;443:931–49.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  17. Breed MD, Guzman-Novoa E, Hunt GJ. Defensive behavior of honey bees: organization, genetics, and comparisons with other bees. Annu Rev Entomol. 2004;49:271–98.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  18. Schumacher MJ, Tveten MS, Egen NB. Rate and quantity of delivery of venom from honeybee stings. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1994;93:831–5.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  19. Visscher PK, Vetter RS, Camazine S. Removing bee stings. Lancet. 1996;348:301–2.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  20. Hoffman DR, Jacobson RS. Allergens in Hymenoptera venom XII. How much protein is in a sting? Ann Allergy. 1984;52:276–8.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  21. Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser D, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Exploring the hidden honeybee (Apismellifera) venom proteome by integrating a combinatorial peptide ligand library approach with FTMS. J Proteomics. 2014;99:169–78.

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  22. Mustafa FB, Ng FS, Nguyen TH, Lim LH. Honeybee venom secretory phospholipase A2 induces leukotriene production but not histamine release from human basophils. Clin Exp Immunol. 2008;151:94–100.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  23. Dudler T, Scheider T, Annand RR, et al. Antigenic surface of bee venom phospholipase A2. J Immunol. 1994;152:5514–22.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  24. Kohler J, Blank S, Muller S, et al. Component resolution reveals additional major allergens in patients with honeybee venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;133:1383–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  25. Hofmann SC, Pfender N, Weckesser S, Huss-Marp J, Jakob T. Added value of IgE detection to rApi m 1 and r Ves v 5 in patients with Hymenoptera venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127:265–7.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  26. Korosec P, Valenta R, Mittermann I, et al. Low sensitivity of commercially available rApi m 1 for diagnosis of honeybee venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;128:671–3.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  27. Mittermann I, Zidarn M, Silar M, et al. Recombinant allergen-based IgE testing to distinguish bee and wasp allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;125:1300–7. e3

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  28. Sturm GJ, Hemmer W, Hawranek R, et al. Detection of IgE to recombinant Api m 1 and rVes v 5 is valuable but not sufficient to distinguish bee from wasp venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;128:247–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  29. Hofmann SC, Pfender N, Weckesser S, et al. Detection of IgE to recombinant Api m 1 and rVes v 5 is valuable but not sufficient to distinguish bee from wasp venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;128:248.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  30. Jakob T, Kohler J, Blank S, et al. Comparable IgE reactivity to natural and recombinant Api m 1 in cross-reactive carbohydrate determinant-negative patients with bee venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130:276–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  31. Vetter RS, Visscher PK, Camazine S. Mass envenomations by honey bees and wasps. West J Med. 1999;170:223–7.

    CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  32. Jin C, Focke M, Leonard R, et al. Reassessing the role of hyaluronidase in yellow jacket venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;125:184–90.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  33. Soldatova LN, Crameri R, Gmachi M, et al. Superior biologic activity of the recombinant bee venom allergen hyaluronidase expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells as compared with Escherichia coli. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1998;101:691–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  34. Markovic-Housley Z, Miglierini G, Soldatova L, et al. Crystal structure of hyaluronidase, a major allergen of bee venom. Structure. 2000;8:1025–35.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  35. de Graaf DC, Aerts M, Danneels E, Devreese B. Bee, wasp, and ant venomics pave the way for a component-resolved diagnosis of sting allergy. J Proteomics. 2009;72:145–54.

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  36. Schmidt JO, Blum MS, Overal WL. Comparative enzymology of venom from stinging Hymenoptera. Toxicon. 1986;24:907–21.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  37. Hoffman DR. Hymenoptera venoms: composition, standardization, stability. In: Levin MI, Lockey RF, editors. Monograph on insect allergy. 4th ed. Pittsburgh: Dave Lambert Associates; 2003. p. 37–53.

    Google Scholar 

  38. Kemeny DM, Harries MG, Youlten LJ, et al. Antibodies to purified bee venom proteins and peptides. I. Development of a highly specific RAST for bee venom antigens and its application to bee sting allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1983;71:505–14.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  39. Blank S, Seismann H, Bockish B, et al. Identification, recombinant expression and characterization of the 100 kDa high molecular weight Hymenoptera venom allergens Api m5 and Ves v3. J Immunol. 2010;184:5403–13.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  40. Blank S, Seismann H, Michel Y, et al. Api m 10, a genuine A. mellifera venom allergen, is clinically relevant but underrepresented in therapeutic extracts. Allergy. 2011;66:1322–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  41. Van Vaerenbergh M, De Smet L, Rafei-Shamsabadi D, et al. IgE recognition of chimeric isoforms of the honeybee (Apismellifera) venom allergen Api m 10 evaluated by protein array technology. Mol Immunol. 2015;63:449–55.

    Article  PubMed  CAS  Google Scholar 

  42. Baker TW, Forester JP, Johnson ML, Stolfi A, Stahl MC. The HIT study: Hymenoptera identification test—how accurate are people at identifying stinging insects? Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2014;114:267–70.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  43. Golden DBK, Moffitt J, Nicklas RA. Stinging insect hypersensitivity: a practice parameter update 2011. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127:852–4.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  44. Georgitis J, Reisman R. Venom skin tests in insect-allergic and insect non-allergic populations. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1985;76:803–7.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  45. Brown TC, Tankersley MS. The sting of the honeybee: an allergic perspective. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2011;107:463–71.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  46. Golden DBK. New directions in diagnostic evaluation of insect allergy. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;14:334–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  47. Rueff F, Jappe U, Przybilla B. Standards and pitfalls of in-vitro diagnostics of Hymenoptera venom allergy. Hautarzt. 2010;61:938–45.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  48. Sturm GJ, Jin C, Kranzelbinder B, et al. Inconsistent results of diagnostic tools hamper the differentiation between bee and vespid venom allergy. PLoS One. 2011;6:e20842.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  49. Blank S, Seismann H, McIntyre M, et al. Vitellogenins are new high molecular weight components and allergens (Api m 12 and Ves v 6) of Apismellifera and Vespula Vulgaris venom. PLoS One. 2013;8:e62009.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  50. King TP, Joslyn A, Kochoumian L. Antigenic cross-reactivity of venom proteins from hornets, wasps, and yellow jackets. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1985;75:621–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  51. Ebo DG, Faber M, Sabato V, et al. Component-resolved diagnostics of wasp (yellow jacket) venom allergy. Clin Exp Allergy. 2012;43:255–61.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  52. Korosec P, Valenta R, Mittermann I, et al. High sensitivity of CAP-FEIA rVes v 5 and rVes v 1 for diagnosis of Vespula venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;129:1406–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  53. Muller U, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Hausman O, Helbling A. IgE to recombinant allergens Api m 1, Ves v 1, and Ves v 5 distinguish double sensitization from crossreaction in venom allergy. Allergy. 2012;67:1069–73.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  54. Eberlein B, Krischan L, Darsow U, Ollert M. Double positivity to bee and wasp venom: improved diagnostic procedure by recombinant allergen-based IgE testing and basophil activation test including data about cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130:155–61.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  55. Korosec P, Erzen R, Silar M, et al. Basophil responsiveness in patients with insect sting allergies and negative venom-specific immunoglobulin E and skin prick test results. Clin Exp Allergy. 2009;39:1730–7.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  56. Golden DBK. Advances in diagnosis and management of insect sting allergy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2013;111:84–9.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  57. Golden DBK, Kelly D, Hamilton RG, et al. Dialyzed venom skin tests for identifying yellow jacket-allergic patients not detected using standard venom. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2009;102:47–50.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  58. Stritzke AI, Eng PA. Age-dependent sting recurrence and outcome in immunotherapy-treated children with anaphylaxis to Hymenoptera venom. Allergy. 2013;43:950–5.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  59. Muller U, Berchtold E, Helbling A. Honeybee venom allergy: results of a sting challenge 1 year after stopping successful venom immunotherapy in 86 patients. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1991;87:702–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  60. Muller U, Helbling A, Berchtold E. Immunotherapy with honeybee venom and yellow jacket venom is different regarding efficacy and safety. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1992;89:529–35.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  61. Lerch E, Muller UR. Long-term protection after stopping venom immunotherapy: results of re-stings in 200 patients. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1998;101:606–12.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  62. Golden GBK, Kwiterovich KA, Kagey-Sobotka A, Lichtenstein LM. Discontinuing venom immunotherapy: extended observations. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1998;101:298–305.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  63. Birnbaum J, Charpin D, Vervloet D. Rapid Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy: comparative safety of three protocols. Clin Exp Allergy. 1993;23:226–30.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  64. Stoevesandt J, Hosp C, Kerstan A, Trautmann A. Risk stratification of systemic allergic reactions during Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy buildup phase. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2014;12:244–55.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  65. Korosec P, Ziberna K, Silar M, et al. Immunological and clinical factors associated with adverse systemic reactions during the build-up phase of honeybee venom immunotherapy. Clin Exp Allergy. 2015;45:1579–89.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  66. Ring J, Messmer K. Incidence and severity of anaphylactoid reactions to colloid volume substitutes. Lancet. 1977;1:466–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  67. Cox L, Larenas-Linnemann D, Lockey RF, Passalacqua G. Speaking the same language: the world allergy organization subcutaneous immunotherapy systemic reaction grading system. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;125:569–74. e1-7

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  68. Rueff F, Przybilla B, Bilo MB, et al. Predictors of side effects during the build-up phase of venom immunotherapy for Hymenoptera venom allergy: the importance of baseline serum tryptase. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;126:105–11.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  69. Rueff F, Vos B, Oude Elberink J, et al. Predictors of clinical effectiveness of Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy. Clin Exp Allergy. 2014;44:736–46.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  70. Kosnik M, Silar M, Bajrovic N, et al. High sensitivity of basophils predicts side effects in venom immunotherapy. Allergy. 2005;60:1401–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  71. Erzen R, Kosnik M, Silar M, Korosec P. Basophil response and the induction of a tolerance in venom immunotherapy: a long-term sting challenge study. Allergy. 2012;67:822–30.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  72. Kucera P, Cvackova M, Hulikova K, et al. Basophil activation can predict clinical sensitivity in patients after venom immunotherapy. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2010;20:110–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  73. Rueff F, Wenderoth A, Przybilla B. Patients still reacting to a sting challenge while receiving conventional Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy are protected by increased venom doses. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001;108:1027–32.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  74. Reisman RE, Livingston A. Venom immunotherapy: 10 years of experience with administration of single venoms and 50 mg maintenance doses. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1992;89:1189–95.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  75. Houliston L, Nolan R, Noble V, et al. Honeybee venom immunotherapy in children using a 50-mg maintenance dose. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127:98–9.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  76. Goldberg A, Confino-Cohen R. Maintenance venom immunotherapy administered at 3-month intervals is both safe and efficacious. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001;107:902–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  77. Cavallucci E, Ramondo S, Renzetti A, et al. Maintenance venom immunotherapy administered at a 3-month interval preserves safety and efficacy and improves adherence. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2010;20:63–8.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  78. Goldberg A, Confino-Cohen R. Effectiveness of maintenance bee venom immunotherapy administered at 6-month intervals. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2007;99:352–7.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  79. Lessof MH, Sobotka AK, Lichtenstein LM. Effects of passive antibody in bee venom anaphylaxis. Johns Hopkins Med J. 1978;142:1–7.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  80. Muller UR, Morris T, Bischof M, Friedli H, Skarvil F. Combined active and passive immunotherapy in honeybee-sting allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1986;78:115–22.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  81. Severino MG, Cortellini G, Bonadonna P, et al. Sublingual immunotherapy for large local reactions caused by honeybee sting: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008;122:44–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  82. Rueff F, Bilo MB, Jutel M, et al. Sublingual immunotherapy with venom is not recommended for patients with Hymenoptera venom allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2009;123:272–3.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  83. Galera C, Soohun N, Zankar N, et al. Severe anaphylaxis to bee venom immunotherapy: efficacy of pretreatment with omalizumab. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2009;19:225–9.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  84. da Silva EN, Randall KL. Omalizumab mitigates anaphylaxis during ultra-rush honey bee venom immunotherapy in monoclonal mast cell activation syndrome. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2013;133:687–8.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  85. Kosnik M, Korosec P. Venom immunotherapy: clinical efficacy, safety and contraindications. Expert Rev Clin Immunol. 2015;11:877–84.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  86. Hsu CY, Chiang WC, Weng TI, et al. Laryngeal edema and anaphylactic shock after topical propolis use for acute pharyngitis. Am J Emerg Med. 2004;22:432–3.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  87. Katayama M, Aoki M, Kawana S. Case of anaphylaxis caused by ingestion of royal jelly. J Dermatol. 2008;35:222–4.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  88. Brown TC. Reactions to honeybee stings: an allergic prospective. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2013;13:365–71.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  89. Shin YS, Liu JN, Hur G-Y, et al. Clinical features and the diagnostic value of component allergen-specific IgE in Hymenoptera venom allergy. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. 2012;4:284–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  90. Sturm GJ, Kranzelbinder B, Schuster C, et al. Sensitization to Hymenoptera venoms is common, but systemic sting reactions are rare. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;133:1635–43. e1631

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  91. Vezir E, Kaya A, Toyran M, et al. Anaphylaxis/angioedema caused by honey ingestion. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2014;35:71–4.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  92. Ades TB, editor Apitherapy. American Cancer Society complete guide to complementary and alternative cancer therapies. 2nd ed. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2009. p. 704–8. ISBN 9780944235713.

    Google Scholar 

  93. Cassileth BR (2011). The complete guide to complementary therapies in cancer care: essential information for patients, survivors and health professionals. World Scientific. pp. 221–. ISBN 978–981–4335–66-9

    Google Scholar 

  94. Pitsios C, Chliva C, Mikos N, et al. Bee pollen sensitivity in airborne pollen allergic individuals. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2006;97(5):703–6.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  95. Martín-Muñoz MF, Bartolome B, Caminoa M, et al. Bee pollen: a dangerous food for allergic children. Identification of responsible allergens. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2010;38(5):263–5. doi:10.1016/j.aller.2009.12.003.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  96. “Bee pollen benefits and side effects". WebMD. Retrieved April 16, 2014. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: "Bee Pollen."

    Google Scholar 

  97. Greenberger PA. Bee pollen-induced anaphylactic reaction in an unknowingly sensitized subject. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2001;86(2):239–42.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  98. Akiyasu T, Paudyal B, Paudyal P, et al. A case report of acute renal failure associated with bee pollen contained in nutritional supplements. Ther Apher Dial. 2010;14(1):93–7. doi:10.1111/j.1744-9987.2009.00707.x.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  99. Ventura MT, Viola M, Calogiuri G, et al. Hypersensitivity reactions to complementary and alternative medicine products. Curr Pharm Des. 2006;12(26):3393–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  100. Matos D, Serrano P, Menezes Brandão F, et al. A case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by propolis-enriched honey. Contact Dermatitis. 2015;72(1):59–60. doi:10.1111/cod.12297.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  101. Münstedt K, Hellner M, Hackethal A, et al. Contact allergy to propolis in beekeepers. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2007;35(3):95–100.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  102. Walgrave SE, Warshaw EM, Glesne LA, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis from propolis. Dermatitis. 2005;16(4):209–15. Review

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  103. Giusti F, Miglietta R, Pepe P, et al. Sensitization to propolis in 1255 children undergoing patch testing. Contact Dermatitis. 2004;51(5–6):255–8.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  104. Rajpara S, Wilkinson MS, King CM, et al. The importance of propolis in patch testing—a multicentre survey. Contact Dermatitis. 2009;61(5):287–90. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0536.2009.01629.x.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  105. Fransway AF, Zug KA, Belsito DV, et al. North American contact dermatitis group patch test results for 2007-2008. Dermatitis. 2013;24(1):10–21. doi:10.1097/DER.0b013e318277ca50.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  106. Lombardi C, Bottello M, Caruso A, et al. Allergy and skin diseases in musicians. Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol. 2003;35(2):52–5.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  107. Propolis: hypersensitivity reactions. Prescrire Int. 2010;19(108):170.

    Google Scholar 

  108. Cho R, Lee JD, Cho SH. Systemic contact dermatitis from propolis ingestion. Ann Dermatol. 2011;23:85–8.

    Article  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  109. Bauer L, Kohlich A, Hirschwehr R, et al. Food allergy to honey: pollen or bee products? Characterization of allergenic proteins in honey by means of immunoblotting. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1996;97(1 Pt 1):65–73.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  110. Pasolini G, Semenza D, Capezzera R, et al. Allergic contact cheilitis induced by repeated contact with propolis-enriched honey. Contact Dermatitis. 2004;50(5):322–3.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  111. Helbling A, Peter C, Berchtold E, et al. Allergy to honey: relation to pollen and honey bee allergy. Allergy. 1992;47:41–9.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  112. Lombardi C, Senna GE, Gatti B, et al. Allergic reactions to honey and royal jelly and their relationship with sensitization to compositae. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 1998;26(6):288–90.

    CAS  Google Scholar 

  113. Takahama H, Shimazu T. Food-induced anaphylaxis caused by ingestion of royal jelly. J Dermatol. 2006;33:424–6.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  114. Thien FC, Leung R, Baldo BA, et al. Asthma and anaphylaxis induced by royal jelly. Clin Exp Allergy. 1996;26:216–22.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  115. Leung R, Thien FC, Baldo B, Czamy D. Royal jelly-induced asthma and anaphylaxis: clinical characteristics and immunologic correlations. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1995;96:1004–7.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  116. Bullock RJ, Rohan A, Straatmans JA. Fatal royal jelly-induced asthma. Med J Aust. 1994;160:44.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  117. Leung R, Ho A, Chan J, et al. Royal jelly consumption and hypersensitivity in the community. Clin Exp Allergy. 1997;27(3):333–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  118. Vila L, Bartolome B, Moreno A, et al. Cross-reactivity between royal jelly and Dermato-phagoidespteronyssinus. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2013;1(2):200–1. doi:10.1016/j.jaip.2013.01.003.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  119. Lucente P, Cavalli M, Vezzani C, et al. Contact cheilitis due to beeswax. Contact Dermatitis. 1996;35(4):258.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  120. Bousquet J, Menardo J-L, Aznar R, et al. Clinical and immunologic survey in beekeepers in relation to their sensitization. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1984;73:332–40.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  121. Richter AG, Nightingale P, Huissoon AP, et al. Risk factors for systemic reactions to bee venom in British beekeepers. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2011;106:159–63.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  122. Munstedt K, Hellner M, Winter D, et al. Allergy to bee venom in beekeepers in Germany. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2008;18:100–5.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  123. Müller U. Bee venom allergy in beekeepers and their family members. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005;5:343–7.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  124. Eich-Wanger C, Müller U. Bee sting allergy in beekeepers. Clin Exp Allergy. 1998;28:1292–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  125. Light WC, Reisman RE, Wypych JI, et al. Clinical and immunological studies of beekeepers. Clin Allergy. 1975;5:389–95.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  126. Münstedt K, Kalder M. Contact allergy to propolis in beekeepers. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2009;37(6):298–301.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  127. Garrido Fernández S, Arroabarren Alemán E, García Figueroa BE, et al. Direct and airborne contact dermatitis from propolis in beekeepers. Contact Dermatitis. 2004;50(5):320–1.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  128. Reisman RE. Unusual reactions to insect stings. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005;5(4):355–8.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  129. Mytas DZ, Stougiannos PN, Zairis MN, et al. Acute anterior myocardial infarction after multiple bee stings. A case of Kounis syndrome. Int J Cardiol. 2009;134(3):e129–31. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2008.01.050.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  130. Ceyhan C, Ercan E, Tekten T, et al. Myocardial infarction following a bee sting. Int J Cardiol. 2001;80:251–3.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  131. Boz C, Velioglu S, Ozmenoglu M. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after bee sting. Neurol Sci. 2003;23:313–5.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  132. Goldstein NP, Rucker W, Klass DW. Encephalopathy and papilledema after bee sting. JAMA. 1964;188:1083–4.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  133. Ross AT. Peripheral neuritis: allergy to honeybee stings. J Allergy. 1939;10:382–4.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  134. Rytand DA. Onset of nephrotic syndrome during a reaction to bee sting. Stanford Med Bull. 1955;13:224–33.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  135. Venters HD, Vernier RL, Worthen HG, Good RA. Bee sting nephrosis: a study of the immunopathologic mechanisms. Am J Dis Child. 1961;102:688–9.

    Google Scholar 

  136. Lam SM. Acute pulmonary hemorrhage following a honeybee sting: a case report. J Microbiol Immunol Infect. 1998;31:133–6.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  137. Tanphaichitr VS, Tuchinda M. Severe thrombocytopenic purpura following a bee sting. Ann Allergy. 1982;49:229–31.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  138. Daisley H. Acute Haemorrhagic pancreatitis following multiple stings by Africanized bees in Trinidad. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 1998;92(1):71–2.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  139. Szalanski AL, McKern JA. Multiplex PCR-RFLP diagnostics of the African honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae). Sociobiology. 2007;50:939–45.

    Google Scholar 

  140. Collins AM, Rinderer TE, Harbo JR, Bolton AB. Colony defense by Africanized and European honey bees. Science. 1982;218:72–4.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  141. Nelson D, Collins AM, Hellmich RL, et al. Biochemical and immunochemical comparison of Africanized and European honey bee venoms. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1990;85:80–5.

    Google Scholar 

  142. Schumacher MJ, Schmidt JO, Egen NB, Dillon KA. Biochemical variability of venoms from individual European and Africanized honey bees (Apismellifera). J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1992;90:59–65.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  143. Schumacher MJ, Schmidt JO, Egen NB, Lowry JE. Quantity analysis, and lethality of European and Africanized honey bee venoms. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 1990;43:79–86.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  144. Park R. Bee and Hymenoptera stings. October 13, 2005. http://emedicine.com/emerg/topic55.html. Accessed 10 March 2006.

  145. Schumacher M, Egen N. Significance of Africanized bees for public health: a review. Arch Intern Med. 1995;155:2038–44.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  146. Daher Ede F, da Silva Jr GB, Bezerra GP, Pontes LB, Martins AM, Guimaraes JA. Acute renal failure after massive honeybee stings. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo. 2003;45:45–50.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  147. Ferreira Jr RS, Almeida RAMB, Barraviera SRCS, Barraviera B. Historical perspective and human consequences of Africanized bee stings in the Americas. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2012;15(2):97–108.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  148. Jones RG, Corteling RL, Bhogal G, Landon J. A novel fab-based antivenom for the treatment of mass bee attacks. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 1999;61:361–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  149. Winston ML. The Africanized “killer” bee: biology and public health. Q J Med. 1994;87:263–7.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  150. Kaplan J. What’s buzzing with Africanized honeybees? Agribiol Res. 2004;52:4–8. http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/mar04/bees0304.html

    Google Scholar 

  151. McKenna WR. Characteristics of multiple-massive honey bee sting cases. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1994;93:224.

    Google Scholar 

  152. Silva GA, Pires KL, Soares DC. RRH: envenoming syndrome due to 200 stings from Africanized honeybees. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo. 2013;55(1):61–4.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  153. Sherman R. What physicians should know about Africanized honeybees. West J Med. 1995;163:541–6.

    CAS  PubMed  PubMed Central  Google Scholar 

  154. McKenna WR. Africanized honey bees. In: Levin MI, Lockey RF, editors. Monograph on insect allergy. 4th ed. Pittsburgh: Dave Lambert Associates; 2003. p. 27–35.

    Google Scholar 

  155. Almeida RA, Olivo TE, Mendes RP, et al. Africanized honeybee stings: how to treat them. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2011;44(6):755–61.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  156. Díaz-Sánchez CL, Lifshitz-Guinzberg A, Ignacio-Ibarra G, et al. Survival after massive (>2000) Africanized honeybee stings. Arch Intern Med. 1998;158(8):925–7.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  157. Murray JA. A case of multiple bee stings. Cent Afr J Med. 1964;10:249–51.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  158. McKenna WR. Killer bees, what the allergist should know. Ped Asthma, Allergy Immunol. 1992;6:275–85.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  159. McKenna WR. Africanized honey bees AKA “killer bees”. San Antonio MD. 1992;2:8–9,12.

    Google Scholar 

  160. Azevedo RV, Paiva RB, Ades F, et al. Poisoning syndrome due to 2,000 stings of africanized honeybees. Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2006;18(1):99–103.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  161. Betten DP, Richardson WH, Tong TC, et al. Massive honey bee envenomation-induced rhabdomyolysis in an adolescent. Pediatrics. 2006;117(1):231–5.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  162. Lovecchio F, Cannon RD, Algier J, et al. Bee swarmings in children. Am J Emerg Med. 2007;25(8):931–3.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  163. Mitchell A. Africanized killer bees. Crit Care Nurse. 2006;26(3):23–31.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  164. MejíaVélez G (2010). "Insuficiencia renal agudaporpicaduramúltiple de abejasafricanizadas. Comunicación de 43 casos" [Acute renal failure due to multiple stings by Africanized bees. Report on 43 cases]. Nefrologia :publicacionoficial de la Sociedad Espanola Nefrologia. 30(5):531–8. doi:10.3265/Nefrologia.pre2010.May.10269. PMID 20613852.

  165. Tunget CL, Clark RF. Invasion of the “killer” bees: separating fact from fiction. Postgrad Med. 1993;94:92–94, 97–98, 101–102.

    Google Scholar 

  166. Greenberg MI, Hendrickson RG, Silverberg M, et al. Greenberg’s text atlas of emergency medicine. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 2005.

    Google Scholar 

  167. Bresolin NL, Carvalho FC, Goes JC, Fernandes V, Barotto AM. Acute renal failure following massive attack by Africanized bee stings. Pediatr Nephrol. 2002;17:625–7.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  168. Daher EF, Silva Jr GB, Bezerra GP, Pontes LB, Martins AMC, Guimarães JA. Acute renal failure after massive honeybee stings. Rev Inst Med Trop São Paulo. 2003;45:45–50.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  169. Daher EF, Oliveira RA, Silva LSV, Silva EMB, Morais TP. Insuficiência renal agudaporpicada de abelhas: relato de casos. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2009;42:209–12.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  170. França FO, Benvenuti LA, Fan HW, Dos Santos DR, Hain SH, Picchi-Martins FR, et al. Severe and fatal mass attacks by "killer" bees (Africanized honey bees—Apismelliferascutellata) in Brazil: clinicopathological studies with measurement of serum venom concentrations. Q J Med. 1994;87:269–82.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  171. McKenna WR, Hess B. Massive Honeybee envenomation and plasmapheresis. Abstract #2388 Annual AAAAI Meeting. 2003.

    Google Scholar 

  172. Humblet Y, Sonnet J, Van Ypersele de Strihou C. Bee stings and acute tubular necrosis. Nephron. 1982;31:187–8.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  173. Mejia G, Arbelaez M, Henao JE, et al. Acute renal failure due to multiple stings by Africanized bees. Ann Intern Med. 1986;104:210–1.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  174. Patrick A, Roberts L, Poon-King P, et al. Acute renal failure due to multiple stings by Africanized bees. Report of the first case in Trinidad. West Indian Med J. 1987;36:43–4.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  175. Munoz-Arizpe R, Velasquez-Jones L, Romero-Navarro B, et al. Acute kidney failure due to stings by Africanized bees. Bol Med Hosp Infant Mex. 1992;49(6):388–90.

    CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  176. Munoz-Arizpe R, Valencia-Espinoza L, Velasquez-Jones L, et al. Africanized bee stings and pathogenesis of acute renal failure. Nephron. 1992;61(4):478.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  177. Gabriel DP, Rodriguez Jr AG, Barsante RC, et al. Severe acute renal failure after massive attack of Africanized bees. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2004;19(10):2680.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  178. Grisotti LS, Mendez GE, Castro I, Baptista MA, Alves VA, Yu L, Burdmann EA. Mechanisms of bee venom induced acute renal failure. Toxicon. 2006;48:44–54.

    Article  CAS  Google Scholar 

  179. Mitchell A. Africanized killer bees: a case study. Crit Care Nurse. 2006;26(3):23–6, 28–31.

    Google Scholar 

  180. Kolecki P. Delayed toxic reaction following massive bee envenomation. Ann Emerg Med. 1999;33:114–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  181. Clark R, Schneir A. Arthropod bits and bee stings. In: Tintinalli JE, Kelen GD, Stapczynski JS, editors. Emergency medicine: a comprehensive study guide. 6th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2004. p. 1190–3.

    Google Scholar 

  182. Beccari M. Dialysis or plasmapheresis for acute renal failure due to Africanized honeybee stings. Arch Intern Med. 1999;159:1255–6.

    Article  CAS  PubMed  Google Scholar 

  183. Schmidt JO. Allergy to venomous insects. In: Graham JM, editor. The hive and the honey bee. Hamilton IL: Dadant and Sons; 1992. p. 1223–6.

    Google Scholar 

  184. Becerril-Ángeles M, Núñez-Velázquez M, Arias-Martìnez MI, et al. Mortality related to honey-bee stings in Mexico from 1988 to 2009. Rev Alerg Mex. 2013;60(2):58–62.

    PubMed  Google Scholar 

  185. Taylor OR. Health problems associated with African bees. Ann Intern Med. 1986;104:267–8.

    Article  PubMed  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA

    William R. McKenna M.D.

  2. Department of Medicine, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, 66849, Germany

    Tyson C. Brown M.D.

Authors
  1. William R. McKenna M.D.
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Tyson C. Brown M.D.
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to William R. McKenna M.D. .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. San Antonio Allergy and Asthma Clinic, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Theodore M. Freeman

  2. Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates P.C., Omaha, Nebraska, USA

    James M. Tracy

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2017 Springer International Publishing Switzerland

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

McKenna, W.R., Brown, T.C. (2017). Unique Aspects of Bee Allergy and Reactions. In: Freeman, T., Tracy, J. (eds) Stinging Insect Allergy. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-46192-2_10

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-46192-2_10

  • Published:

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-46190-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-46192-2

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation