The brown recluse spider's bite is poisonous. The scientific name for the brown recluse is Loxosceles reclusa.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Brown recluse spider venom

The brown recluse spider is most common in the south and central states of the United States, especially in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, eastern Texas, and Oklahoma. However, the spider has been found in several large cities outside this range.

The brown recluse spider prefers dark, sheltered areas such as under porches and in woodpiles.

When the spider bites you, you may feel a sharp sting or nothing at all. Pain usually develops within the first several hours after being bitten, and may become severe. Children may have more serious reactions.

Symptoms may include:

• Chills
• Itching
• General ill-feeling or discomfort
• Fever
• Nausea
• Reddish or purplish color in a circle around bite
• Sweating
• Ulcer in the area of the bite

In rare cases:

• Coma
• Blood in urine
• Jaundice
• Kidney failure
• Seizures