A recent study published in CHEST shed light on factors associated with mechanical ventilation (MV) use in patients admitted for bee venom exposure. The research, presented at the American College of Chest Physicians' annual meeting, analyzed data from the 2016-2020 National Inpatient Sample.

Of 6,085 admissions for bee venom exposure, 17.4% required MV. Patients needing MV had a significantly higher mortality rate (16.0% vs 0.3%) and incurred higher mean hospital charges ($78,238 vs $28,823).

Several factors were associated with increased odds of MV use included being male, having Medicaid insurance (vs. Medicare), and having pre-existing cirrhosis, peripheral vascular disease, obesity, or depression. The study also found racial disparities, with Black patients having lower odds of needing MV compared to White patients. No significant differences were found between Hispanic and White patients. Patients requiring MV were younger, had longer hospital stays, and higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index scores.

The study authors noted that while bee stings typically cause localized reactions, an estimated 0.3-7.5% of cases can lead to systemic anaphylaxis, potentially requiring ventilatory support.

The study's limitations included its retrospective nature and reliance on a national database, which may not have captured all relevant clinical details.

The authors declared having no competing interests.