Nosocomial dermatitis caused by Dermanyssus gallinae

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Entomology
• Human Dermatology
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Dermanyssus gallinae, commonly known as the poultry red mite, is an ectoparasite of birds.
• This mite can occasionally infest humans, leading to dermatological issues.
• Nosocomial infections are hospital-acquired infections that can arise from various sources within a healthcare environment.

Observation:

• A case of human infestation with Dermanyssus gallinae is reported.
• The infestation originated from an abandoned pigeon nest located on the exterior wall of Hôpital Henri Mondor, near a window.
• This highlights a potential environmental source of mite transmission to humans within a hospital setting.

Findings:

• The mite Dermanyssus gallinae was identified as the cause of pruritic dermatitis in the affected individual.
• The source of the infestation was traced to a nearby abandoned pigeon nest, indicating a zoonotic transmission route.
• The proximity of the nest to a window facilitated the mites' entry into the hospital environment.

Implications:

• Healthcare facilities should implement surveillance for potential reservoirs of ectoparasites, such as bird nests.
• Regular removal and destruction of abandoned bird nests, particularly those near building entry points, are crucial preventive measures.
• Effective pest control and environmental hygiene are essential to prevent nosocomial transmission of zoonotic diseases like Dermanyssus gallinae infestation.