BITTEN BY SPIDER
STRANGE EFFECT ON VICTIM
SYDNEY. June 1
A case, which is. probably unique, of tarantism, or dancing under the influence of spider’s venom, is reported by Dr. A. M. Watkins, of Roseville, in the current issue of the Medical Journal of Australia.
He received an urgent summons to attend a 55-year-old patient who had been bitten by a large spider. The patient was standing in his garden, and at his feet was the body of a large black spider. The puncture of the spider’s fangs was clearly visible at the end of the ring finger of his left hand.
The bitten man’s face was masklike, the eyes were- staring, and the pupils dilated, and the corners of his mouth were drawn down, suggesting the risus sardonicus. He was executing short dancing steps, the tarantism or hysterical impulse referred to by Italian authorities. After treatment his condition improved, and in 12 hours he felt well, but very stiff and sore all over. The Government entomologist identified the spider as Atrax Robuslus, the funnel web or “trap-door” spider, which is common in the suburbs, and whose bite has resulted in several deaths.
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Greymouth Evening Star, 19 June 1939, Page 3
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193BITTEN BY SPIDER Greymouth Evening Star, 19 June 1939, Page 3
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