Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

09:57
Rearing and Double-stranded RNA-mediated Gene Knockdown in the Hide Beetle, Dermestes maculatus
Published on: December 28, 2016
Whiplash rove beetle dermatitis in central Queensland
L A Banney1, D J Wood, G D Francis
1Department of Dermatology, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Australia. johnandleith@powerup.com.au
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|August 24, 2000
Summary
Contact dermatitis from beetles (Coleoptera) caused a large outbreak in Queensland, Australia, affecting an estimated 250 people. Limited medical knowledge of this blistering skin condition highlights its importance as a differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
- Entomology
Background:
- Vesicular dermatitis from Coleoptera (beetles) is a globally recognized condition.
- This beetle-induced dermatitis is infrequently documented in Australia.
- Previous reports in Australia are limited, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the largest recognized outbreak of beetle-induced vesicular dermatitis in Australia.
- To assess the awareness of this condition among medical practitioners in the affected region.
- To provide clinical and histopathological insights into this dermatological disorder.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a survey of medical practitioners in central coastal Queensland.
- Documented clinical presentations and histopathological findings.
- Estimated the number of cases during the outbreak.
Main Results:
- Identified a significant outbreak with an estimated 250 cases in central coastal Queensland in 1998.
- Revealed limited knowledge of the condition among local medical practitioners.
- Presented clinical and histopathological illustrations of the dermatitis.
Conclusions:
- Beetle-induced vesicular dermatitis represents a notable public health issue in Australia.
- Enhanced medical awareness and diagnostic capabilities are crucial for managing this condition.
- This condition should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute blistering skin disorders.
Related Concept Videos
Papillary Dermis
Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Reticular Dermis
The papillary and reticular dermis are the two layers of the dermis. They are made of connective tissue with fibers of collagen extending from one to the other, making the border between the two somewhat indistinct. The dermal papillae extending into the epidermis belong to the papillary layer, whereas the dense collagen fiber bundles below belong to the reticular layer.
Reticular Layer
Underlying the papillary layer is the much thicker reticular layer, composed of dense, irregular connective...
Reticular Layer
Underlying the papillary layer is the much thicker reticular layer, composed of dense, irregular connective...
Inhalation Anthrax
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium. It primarily affects herbivorous animals but can be transmitted to humans through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of spores.Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, typically results from direct contact with bacterial spores through skin abrasions and is generally less severe. Gastrointestinal anthrax results from eating undercooked or contaminated meat. It affects the mouth, throat, or...
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a severe tick-borne illness caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, a Gram-negative, coccobacillary bacterium. This pathogen is an obligate intracellular parasite, requiring a host cell for replication. Transmission occurs through the bite of an infected tick. In the United States, the most important vectors are Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Dermacentor andersoni (Rocky Mountain wood tick), though other tick species may also serve as vectors.
Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a protozoal disease caused by species of the genus Leishmania and transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. The parasite exists in two principal morphological forms during its life cycle. A sandfly acquires intracellular amastigotes from an infected reservoir host, such as a dog. Within the sandfly, these forms differentiate into motile, flagellated promastigotes. During a subsequent blood meal, promastigotes are injected into the human host, where they...

