[Insect venom allergy].

Systemic allergic reactions to hymenoptera stings are most often mediated by venom-specific IgE antibodies. The most frequent symptoms are urticaria, angioedema, asthma and anaphylactic shock. Rarely, cerebral or myocardial ischemia with permanent damage may result from severe anaphylactic shock. Each year several individuals die in Switzerland from allergic reactions following hymenoptera stings. The most valuable diagnostic tests are skin tests and estimation of venom-specific serum-IgE antibodies. The most important drugs for emergency treatment are adrenaline and antihistamines. During anaphylactic shock, volume substitution may be essential. All patients with a history of severe systemic reactions should receive venom immunotherapy which induces complete protection in a high percentage of the patients.