Treatment of Centipede Bites
For centipede bites, the primary treatment should focus on pain management, wound cleansing, and monitoring for potential complications such as infection or allergic reactions.
Initial Management
- Thoroughly irrigate the bite wound with copious amounts of warm or room temperature potable water with or without soap until there is no foreign matter in the wound 1
- Cover the wound with an antibiotic ointment or cream and a clean occlusive dressing to promote healing and reduce infection risk 1
- Apply ice with a barrier (such as a thin towel) between the cold container and the skin to help reduce pain and swelling 1
Pain Management
- Administer over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate local pain 1, 2
- Hot water immersion of the affected area may potentially provide pain relief for centipede bites 3
- For severe pain, stronger analgesics may be required 2, 4
Monitoring and Follow-up
- Monitor for signs of infection including increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or purulent discharge 2, 5
- Watch for systemic symptoms which are rare but can include fever, chills, or generalized reactions 2, 6
- Seek medical attention if:
Special Considerations
- Check tetanus immunization status and update if needed 1
- In rare cases, centipede bites can lead to more severe complications such as cellulitis or necrotizing fasciitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with underlying conditions 5, 6
- Patients with sickle cell trait or other hematologic disorders may experience more severe or prolonged symptoms 6
What to Avoid
- Do not apply suction to the bite wound 1
- Do not apply pressure immobilization bandages as this technique is only recommended for certain snake bites 1
- Do not close infected wounds 1
Most centipede bites, while painful, are not life-threatening and resolve with supportive care. The cornerstone of treatment is pain relief and monitoring for potential complications 2, 3.