Gender-Based Clinical Differences in Hymenoptera Venom Poisoning: A Retrospective Study From Taiwan (April 2021 to March 2023).

Abstract

Background: Hymenoptera stings are a common cause of emergency visits. Objective: This study aims to assess potential gender disparities in clinical presentation and outcomes of Hymenoptera stings. Methods: Medical records were collected from a single medical center in Northern Taiwan, covering the period from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2023. A total of 87 patients with confirmed Hymenoptera sting incidents were identified. Data on gender, sting location, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, complications, treatment, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results: Among the 87 patients, 47.1% were male and 52.9% were female, showing a nearly balanced distribution of cases. Females experienced a higher rate of stings during holidays. Males, however, were more likely to suffer from severe systemic reactions and had a higher average number of stings compared to females (1.3 vs. 1.0, p=0.049). Conclusion: Males are at higher risk for multiple stings and severe systemic reactions from Hymenoptera stings. Additionally, females tend to experience more stings during spring and autumn compared to males.