Duvernoy's gland (thought this was a good read)

[BLUESIRTALIS]

He passed away a little over a year ago.

i didn't know he passed.

[EasternGirl]

I should have thought of what you said, Richard...of course, it would be similar to an allergy in which the second exposure caused a more severe reaction. Interestingly, I believe the book that Steve sent me mentions researchers studying hognose venom or something about hognoses. I will look it up and get back to you all on that. I am thinking that what people think are allergic reactions to garter venom are actually symptoms of mild envenomation. And speaking of people building up tolerance to toxins...I came across this while researching my paper...Snake Man Steve Ludwin - Injecting Venom - Bizarre Life - Bizarre Mag

[jaleely]

So, you have to build up a tolerence to something that would otherwise affect you. And, because you can build that tolerance it's not an allergic reaction, but a different chemical reaction in your body. If you don't build the tolerence, then you will be affected.

[ConcinusMan]

it's complicated. Sometimes being previously exposed (but that's in tiny amounts, built up gradually over time) builds immunity. Other times, it can cause you to develop an allergy to it and so, if bitten again, a severe allergic reaction can take place. In that case, it's your body's immune response that is dangerous. (anaphylactic shock)