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Brown Recluse Spider Toxin Effect on Red Blood Cells

Venom released by the brown recluse spider contains a complex collection of enzymes. Primarily protein-based, the brown recluse spider's venom has antigenic and locally destructive properties. Among other subcomponents, esterases, hyaluronidases and proteases have been isolated from recluse spider venom through various purification techniques. Of these, Sphingomyelinase-D has been identified as the primary substance with a toxic effect on red blood cells.

Sphingomyelinase-D directly causes hemolysis, which damages red blood cell walls and leads to the leakage of the red, oxygen-bearing protein known as hemoglobin. Anemia may result. After red blood cell casts are discarded, they are filtered through the kidneys and can cause renal failure.

Brown recluse venom triggers the aggregation of platelets and endothelial swelling in order to combat harm caused to red blood cells. White blood cells are brought to the area of the injury. However, instead of forming blood clots where needed, these white blood cells form blood clots in capillaries, resulting in necrosis.  

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