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Paederus Dermatitis: Everything To Know

About:

Paederus (linear) dermatitis is an irritant contact dermatitis which is caused due to accidental contact by a beetle.

Out of 50 patients studied, 43 were males and 7 were females. The neck was the most common site involved followed by face. [1]

- Affects persons of either sex, all ages, races or social conditions
- Sometimes the concurrent bacterial infection is present
- Doesnt require lab tests

The main cause leading to paederus dermatitis is the beetle, which belongs to the genus paederus family. The beetle usually doesnt bite or sting, but it's accidental brushing or crushing against the skin leads to the release of a fluid containing paederin. This fluid is the actual potent blistering agent. In case the fluid isnt immediately washed off, the paederin leads to paederus dermatitis. Paederin is known to react with the skin after about 24 hours of its contact.

Symptoms:

Self-diagnosable:
Red irritated skin and blisters. The lesions are characteristically linear.

People may experience:
Fever, neuralgia, arthralgia, and vomiting. A burning and itching sensation.

Treatment:

Self-care: The area should be washed with soap and water to remove the irritant. One can use cool wet soaks to soothe the blistered site.

Medications: The medication followed is usually a combination of topical steroids with oral antihistamines and antibiotics.

Specialists: For other kinds, consult a physician or a dermatologist. At, mfine were here to help you with different areas of health issues, come on board for a holistic treatment program.