Allergic Reactions to Bee and Wasp Stings

THE problem of severe reactions to the stings of bees and wasps has presented itself with increasing frequency in the past few years, and although our interest has been turned to these reactions, this interest does not seem to be the sole explanation of the apparent increase. Inquiry among colleagues has confirmed our clinical impression, and the seriousness of these reactions has led us to believe that a critical review of the situation is indicated.Isolated reports of sudden death from insect stings appeared in the literature before the turn of the century, and Gould1 lists 3 cases of bee . . .