Females and males in the range of 5 to 10mm. Slim and pale-
coloured. Often found together with a silken nest, the 'sac'.
Identification of the relevant species is possible only on the
basis of microscopic characters. Cheiracanthium species are
common in many parts of the world, including Europe. The species
most likely to be responsible for a bite include: C. punctorium
(Europe); C. mildei (Europe and N. America); C. inclusum (North,
Central and South America); C. lawrencei (South Africa); and C.
japonicum (Japan). Imported species are frequently associated
with grapes. Some species of the genus bite readily if their
movements are restricted. Typically, the bite is sharp and
painful, with pain, immediate and radiating, lasting for 30-45
mins, plus erythema and swelling. A wheal may develop, producing
a necrotic area which can take 8 weeks to heal. Cheiracanthium
lawrencei is said to be capable of causing cutaneous necrosis.
Pain or numbness at the site of the bite may be followed by
sweating and nausea lastin