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Pseudo-delusory syndrome caused by Limothrips cerealium
Fabrizio Guarneri1, Claudio Guarneri, Graziella Mento
1Dipartimento di Medicina Sociale del Territorio-Sezione di Dermatologia, Policlinico Universitario G.Martino- Messina (Italy). claudioguarneri@tiscali.it
International Journal of Dermatology
|March 15, 2006
Summary
Human infestation by Limothrips cerealium (grain thrips) is rare. A farmer with intense itching was diagnosed with grain thrips after initial misdiagnosis, highlighting the need for thorough entomological investigation.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Limothrips cerealium, commonly known as grain thrips, are plant parasites of the Gramineae family.
- Human infestations by grain thrips are infrequently documented in scientific literature.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old female farmer presented with severe pruritus and a crawling sensation on her scalp.
- Initial clinical and laboratory tests were negative, leading to a suspected diagnosis of delusional infestation (Ekbom's syndrome).
Findings:
- Stereomicroscopic identification confirmed the presence of Limothrips cerealium on the patient's scalp.
- The infestation source was traced to a nearby wheat field and grain storage area.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by unusual parasitic infestations.
- Prompt identification of the causative agent and environmental source is crucial for effective treatment and resolution.
- Environmental control measures and patient relocation can lead to complete symptom remission.
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