Bees sting as a defensive measure, probably to induce (through pain)
     the individual (or animal) that is perceived as a threat to stop
     threatening the bee, bees or hive.
 
     All humans are "allergic" to bee venom. The usual local (and massive local
     reactions) likely represent the normal response to antigen (venom) -
     antibody (largely immunoglobulin G or IgG) interaction. In most
     individuals, repeated exposure causes the production of increased amounts
     of IgG which "neutralizes" venom and results in a diminished local response
     (the "immunity" which most beekeepers prize.)
 
     In life-threatening severe, systemic allergic reactions, (as I understand
     the current explanation), it is thought that there is an alteration in the
     usual antibody production such that there is increased production of IgE,
     vice IgG. IgE is attached to mast cells in tissue and circulation. Inter-
     action between venom and IgE (which occurs in small amounts under the usual
     circumstances of local response) produces massive release of histamine from
     the mast cells.  Histamine contributes largely to the systemic reaction -
     swelling and itching and possibly hives and reddened skin at sites
     distant to the sting site, airway narrowing/ obstruction, increased
     permeability of the vascular (blood) structures with loss of fluid into the
     tissues, hypotension (lowered blood pressure) and shock. Loss of conscious-
     ness and death may ensue rapidly. Epinephrine/ adrenalin is the corrective
     agent/ medication. Immediate medical attention is indicated.
 
     Massive envenomation, as the result of multiple stings, is not an
     "allergic" reaction. Rather it is venom "overload", with direct toxic
     effects. Case reports indicate that healthy individuals may well survive
     hundreds of stings. Medical support should be sought in instances of
     multiple stings.
 
     I hope that this information is helpful in understanding the various
     circumstances outlined. I profess no credentials as other than a
     honeybee-sting allergic (and desensitized) physician who has kept bees
     since c. 1955
 
     Barry Thompson
     Rockville, MD
 
 
______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re: allergic reactions
Author:  [log in to unmask] at INTERNET
Date:    4/3/97 1:15 AM
 
 
Gerry Visel wrote:
> Jerry,
>    "Everyone" is somewhat allergic to bee stings.  That's why bees sting.
        In fact, most people are NOT allergic to bee stings.  Most reactions
are local reactions to the venom, and these can vary in intensity.
Allergic reactions are systemic, ie they involve distant parts of the
body.
        While both types of reactions involve the immune system, the allergic
reaction represents a "mis-firing" of the immune system, an overreaction
by a system that is designed to keep our bodies free of "bad bugs and
evil humors".
        People also can die from bee stings where the immune system acts
appropriately.  This is why africanized bees are so dangerous.  When
they sting by the hundreds, there is a venom overload that can kill.
Gert Walter