Irritant Dermatitis to Staphylinid Beetle in Indian Troops in Congo

Contact dermatitis to Staphylinid beetle is a well known entity worldwide. Paederus sabaeus (Econda) species of this insect was responsible for a widespread occurrence of this dermatitis in United Nations (UN) troops posted in Congo. This study was undertaken to observe the various aspects of this unique dermatitis in the mission area.

All clinically diagnosed cases of contact dermatitis to Econda occurring in Indian troops posted to UN mission in Congo during the study period were included. Their epidemiological and clinical characteristics with treatment options were studied in detail.

A wide range of dermatological manifestations were seen in the subjects under study. Few of the manifestations observed in the study have not been reported earlier in literature. Most of the reactions occurred on the exposed areas. Treatment options were guided by the site and the severity of the reaction.

Contact dermatitis to Staphylinid beetle can mimic various other dermatoses and has to be considered in the differential diagnosis in all dermatological consultations during the peak season in the Congo mission area. The insect was found to have certain definite behavioural patterns, the knowledge of which would help in preventing this dermatosis.