Brown recluse spider venom is categorized as which type of toxin?

Prepare for the CIEMT Emergency Medical Technician Test. Study using tailored flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Get exam-ready!

Multiple Choice

Brown recluse spider venom is categorized as which type of toxin?

Explanation:
Brown recluse venom is primarily cytotoxic. It contains enzymes like sphingomyelinase D that disrupt cell membranes, leading to cell death and local tissue necrosis at the bite site. This falls under cytotoxins, which damage cells directly and cause tissue destruction. Neurotoxins affect nerves, hemotoxins target blood components or coagulation, and myotoxins damage muscle tissue, none of which describe the main effect of this spider’s venom.

Brown recluse venom is primarily cytotoxic. It contains enzymes like sphingomyelinase D that disrupt cell membranes, leading to cell death and local tissue necrosis at the bite site. This falls under cytotoxins, which damage cells directly and cause tissue destruction. Neurotoxins affect nerves, hemotoxins target blood components or coagulation, and myotoxins damage muscle tissue, none of which describe the main effect of this spider’s venom.

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