The term "insect" is here applied to all arthropods, that is, true insects, spiders, scorpions, ticks and centipedes.

Note: If anaphylaxis is evident, the causative agent is of secondary concern, and the patient should be treated for anaphylaxis without waiting to determine the cause.

The following key is intended only as a guide to aid in the identification of the agent of envenomation where venom intoxication has already been diagnosed. It should be remembered that the suggestion arrived at by using this key should remain consistent with the patient’s history and the clinician’s own opinion.