For the past couple of decades, individuals in the Pacific Northwest have reported spider bites that result in symptoms like those from a brown recluse. However, because the brown recluse spider does not inhabit this region, the bites were then attributed to the hobo spider.
Although spider bites are common in this part of the country, some scientists feel that there is not enough evidence to conclude that the hobo spider is the source of these necrotic (tissue destroying) wounds.
Organizations such as the Oregon Poison Center at Oregon Health and Science University have been doing research to determine whether hobo spiders do, in fact, bite humans or cause necrosis. Spiders are collected for identification, and victims are asked about the circumstances surrounding the bite.
There are also some conditions other than spider bites that can cause skin ulceration, such as skin cancer, Lyme disease, or cutaneous anthrax (meaning it affects the skin).
Nonetheless, there are a number of symptoms that do result from a spider bite, whether from a hobo spider or other species, and should be taken seriously. In addition to the well-known necrotic lesions, symptoms can include a blister at the bite location, headache, nausea, weakness, join pain, or fatigue. These may appear 24 to 36 hours after a bite. Victims should seek immediate medical care if a bite is suspected.