Management overview for red-back spider bite

Red-back spider (Latrodectus hasselti) bite is the most common significant envenoming in Australia. Although it is not life threatening, envenoming can cause significant pain. Red-back spider bite usually occurs in temperate regions of Australia, with very few bites reported in northern tropical Australia or in cooler southern regions such as Tasmania. Red-back spiders prefer dark and dry places, and can be found in shoes, helmets, toys or equipment left outdoors.

Management of suspected red-back spider bite is symptomatic focusing on adequate analgesia. Red-back spider antivenom has minimal benefits and most clinical toxicologists no longer recommend its use.