Clinical and epidemiological study of Paederus dermatitis in Manipal, India

Objective: To study the clinical features and factors associated with Paederus dermatitis/blister beetle dermatitis (BBD) and to carry out an epidemiological survey in Manipal with regard to Paederus dermatitis. Patients and methods: The study was conducted in two parts, viz., clinical and epidemiological. In the clinical study the patients were evaluated by means of a standard pro forma. In the epidemiological study, 55 randomly chosen houses each in 4 localities were assessed by a detailed standard questionnaire. Results: The majority of subjects in the clinical study comprised of students with exposed areas being common sites of occurrence and a higher incidence in summer seasons. There was a previous occurrence in nearly one third of patients. The epidemiological study revealed preventive measures like closing windows and use of repellents being utilized. Presence of dense vegetation around household accounted to be a factor in occurrence of BBD. There was a higher occurrence in summer and rainy seasons. The exposed parts of the body were common sites of occurrence of BBD. Conclusion: The lesions Paederus dermatitis arise following crushing of the bug following bite and associated with burning or itching sensations mainly on the exposed areas. Kissing ulcers, whiplash dermatitis and Nairobi eye are some of the clinical manifestations of Paederus dermatitis. This study provides epidemiological as well as clinical data of Paederus dermatitis and recommends preventive measures in reducing future incidences of Paederus dermatitis.