The venom of a black widow spider is toxic to which body system?

• A. Cardiovascular system.
• B. Nervous system.
• C. Renal system.
• D. Respiratory system.

Answer: (B)

Black widow venom is neurotoxic, meaning it primarily targets the nervous system. The venom contains latrotoxins that trigger widespread neurotransmitter release from presynaptic nerve terminals, especially acetylcholine, causing intense and prolonged nerve stimulation. This leads to severe muscle cramps, rigidity, tremors, and autonomic symptoms like sweating and elevated blood pressure. While autonomic effects can influence heart rate and breathing, the root problem is the disruption of neural transmission, making the nervous system the main system affected. The other options describe bodily systems that aren’t the primary targets of this venom.