q 41

Cytotoxic Venom of the Brown Recluse Spider

• Definition of Cytotoxic

  • Cytotoxic refers to a substance that is toxic to cells and can lead to cellular damage or destruction.

• Brown Recluse Spider

  • Scientific Name: Loxosceles reclusa
  • Known for its characteristic violin-shaped marking on its back.
  • Found predominantly in the Midwestern and Southern United States.

• Effects of Brown Recluse Spider Venom

  • The venom is primarily cytotoxic, which specifically means it:
  • Causes Severe Local Tissue Damage
    • The venom leads to necrosis (the death of tissue) due to its destructive effect on cellular structures.
    • Affected areas may develop ulcers and can take a long time to heal.
  • Potential Misconceptions
    • It does NOT suppress the respiratory drive (Option a).
    • It does NOT weaken the structure of the bones (Option c).
    • It does NOT destroy the body's red blood cells (Option d).

• Conclusion

  • The correct answer regarding the effect of the venom of a brown recluse spider is:
  • b. causes severe local tissue damage.