Parasitic Infections BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA)

Question 1

BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA) Clinical Feature

Answer 1

burning wheals, turning to firm papules, often in groups of three – “breakfast, lunch and dinner” – in
areas with easy access (face, neck, arms, legs, hands)

Question 2

BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA) Etiology

Answer 2

caused by Cimex lectularius, a small insect that feeds mainly at night (hides in crevices in walls and
furniture during the day)

Question 3

BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA) Differential Diagnosis

Answer 3

• dermatitis herpetiformis, drug eruptions, ecthyma, other insect bites, scabies

Question 4

BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA) Investigations

Answer 4

none required, but lesional biopsy can confirm insect bite reaction

Question 5

BED BUGS (HEMIPTERA) Management. Measures, topical, and oral.

Answer 5

professional fumigation
• topical steroids and oral H1-antagonists for symptomatic relief
• defnitive treatment is removal of clutter in home and application of insecticides to walls and furniture