Bitten by an insect, she has both legs amputated: essential steps to avoid the worst

in collaboration with

Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)

After gardening all day, a British woman realized she had been bitten twice on her left leg. Small wounds that seemed harmless, but which turned into necrotic tissue… leading to the amputation of both legs.

Two pimples that turned into “horrible ulcers”

In September 2023, Josie Rowley, a 69-year-old British woman, is gardening as usual. But in the evening, she notices two small “red marks” on his left leg.

The problem? By the next day, the pimples had grown larger.

Bandages, which unfortunately proved to be ineffective: his toes quickly began to turn black. Various treatments were then applied (antibiotics, leech therapy), without success.

One amputation followed by another

Lacking alternatives, doctors decide to amputate the sixty-year-old’s left leg to stop the infection. But this first operation is not enough to stop its spread. Ten days after the operation, experts tell Josie Rowley that she will lose her second leg, to allow the ulcers to heal.

A rare case, but possible, recognizes Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo.

Insect bites: possible complications

Generally benign, insect bites can sometimes lead to serious complications.

Secondary infections

“An insect bite can sometimes become infected, especially if it is not cleaned properly or if it is scratched excessively. A serious infection, such as bacterial cellulitis, can develop and, if not treated promptly, could potentially progress to requiring amputation in the most severe cases. The same is true in cases of generalized infection (septicemia) with the need for vasoconstrictor drugs such as noradrenaline which can lead to decreased blood flow to the limbs and necrosis.“, warns Dr. Gérald Kierzek.

Serious allergic reactions

“A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to an insect bite can cause significant swelling and reduced blood flow to the affected limb. In extreme cases, if treatment is not given promptly, this could potentially lead to tissue death requiring amputation,” reveals the medical director of Doctissimo.

Necrotizing venoms

“Some insects, such as the brown recluse spider, have venom that can cause tissue necrosis. If the affected area is large and treatment is not given in time, amputation may be necessary to prevent the necrosis from spreading.“, the doctor continues.

Vascular complications

Finally, “In rare cases, an insect bite can cause thrombosis or embolism, leading to obstruction of blood flow in the affected limb. If this obstruction is not treated promptly, it could potentially lead to tissue necrosis requiring amputation,” he specifies.

It is important to note that these cases are extremely rare.

Whether you are in a park, by a river or in a garden, there are several good habits you can follow to reduce your risk of bites:

• Wear light-colored, covering clothing (long sleeves, pants);
• Wear a hat and closed shoes;
• Tuck the bottom of the pants into the socks;
• Apply skin repellents to exposed skin and special textile repellents to clothing;
• Use electric repellents or insect traps in rooms;
• Eliminate stagnant water around the house;
• Avoid perfumes and scented cosmetics that attract insects;
• Stay calm in the presence of stinging insects such as bees or wasps;
• Cover food and drinks outdoors.

What if I get bitten?

You must act quickly! It is therefore advisable to:

• Quickly remove the stinger if present;
• Disinfect the bitten area with soap and water;
• Apply an antiseptic solution;
• Relieve pain with a painkiller if necessary;
• Observe the evolution of the local reaction in the following days;
• Be alert to the appearance of signs of infection or allergic reaction: swelling, pus, extensive redness, fever, lymph nodes, necrosis (blackish appearance, etc.)
• If you are stung in the mouth or throat, suck on an ice cube and seek medical attention promptly.

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