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Scolopendra bites: a report of two cases and review of the literature
Author(s) -
Veraldi Stefano,
Çuka Ermira,
Gaiani Francesca
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
international journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.677
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-4632
pISSN - 0011-9059
DOI - 10.1111/ijd.12434
Subject(s) - centipede , medicine , leukocytosis , dermatology , prednisone , edema , surgery , biology , zoology
Background Centipedes are arthropods belonging to the class C hilopoda. Approximately 3000 species have been described. Centipedes are found more commonly in tropical and subtropical countries. Centipedes possess venomous fangs. The S colopendra represent the best‐known genus of centipede. Methods We describe two cases of severe skin reactions caused by S colopendra subspinipes bites. Results Both patients were bitten on the hand. The clinical picture was characterized by severe erythematous edema. In addition, one patient presented with a blister. Both patients complained of severe pain. Laboratory examinations showed leukocytosis and an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate ( ESR ). Complete remission was achieved within two weeks by means of paracetamol and oral prednisone. Conclusions Western dermatologists should be aware of the possibility of severe skin reactions caused by centipede bites.