An outbreak of blister beetle dermatitis in a residential school: A clinical profile

Abstract

Background: Blister beetle dermatitis an irritant vesiculobullous disorder caused by rove beetles when it comes in contact with or is crushed on the skin. Their hemolymph consists of pederin, a potent vesicant responsible for the classical morphology of lesions. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study of 42 such cases was seen in a residential school, clinical details and photographs were collected using a standard pro forma and consent form, respectively. Results: Clinically, the lesions were present mostly on the uncovered parts of the body (81%). Due to the irritant nature of the lesions, flexures showed classical “kissing lesions.” Only 11.9% (5) cases reported a history of contact with the beetle signifying a high degree of suspicion to make the diagnosis. Conclusion: This article discusses one such outbreak with mention of the clinical profile and preventive methods of Paederus dermatitis.

Keywords

• Blister beetle dermatitis
• Paederus dermatitis
• rove beetle