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Published on: February 9, 2011

Preseptal cellulitis in a child caused by Megacopta centrosignatum

Albert Chak Ming Wong1, Shiu Ting Mak

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Union Hospital, Hong Kong. dralbertcmw@gmail.com

Journal of AAPOS : the Official Publication of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|December 15, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Preseptal cellulitis in children can result from insect exposure. A rare case highlights an insect, Megacopta centrosignatum, causing this condition in a young girl's eye.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Entomology

Background:

  • Preseptal cellulitis is an infection of the eyelid and surrounding skin.
  • Common causes include bacterial infections, but insect-related reactions are less frequent.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

Observation:

  • A 2-year-old girl presented with symptoms of preseptal cellulitis.
  • The condition was localized to the superior fornix of her eye.
  • An insect, identified as Megacopta centrosignatum, was found embedded in the ocular tissue.

Findings:

  • The embedded insect, Megacopta centrosignatum, was identified as the causative agent of preseptal cellulitis.
  • This case represents a unique presentation of ocular inflammation due to an insect foreign body.
  • Microscopic examination confirmed insect parts and secretions contributing to the inflammatory response.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering entomological causes in pediatric preseptal cellulitis.
  • Suggests thorough ocular examination for foreign bodies, including insect parts, in pediatric cases.
  • Emphasizes the need for prompt removal of insect foreign bodies to resolve inflammation and prevent secondary infections.

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