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Abnormal Cutaneous Response to Mosquito Bites in Cancer Patients
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|February 15, 2017
Summary
Cancer patients can develop a simulated
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Skin eruptions resembling papular urticaria were observed in 6% of cancer patients.
- These lesions were identified as mosquito bites, suggesting an altered host response in cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunological basis of mosquito bite hypersensitivity in cancer patients.
- To explore the correlation between malignancy, cancer treatment, and the observed skin reactions.
Main Methods:
- Direct observation of skin lesions and mosquito bite reactions.
- Intradermal tests (ID) and leukocyte migration inhibition tests (LMIT) using mosquito antigen (MSA).
- Histopathological examination of skin lesions.
Main Results:
- A direct correlation was found between mosquito bite reactions and positive ID tests with MSA.
- Cell-mediated immunity to MSA was confirmed in affected patients via LMIT.
- Cancer treatment appeared to influence the reaction patterns to both MSA and mosquito bites.
Conclusions:
- Cancer patients exhibit a specific hypersensitivity to mosquito bites, linked to cell-mediated immunity.
- Malignancy and potentially its treatment may alter immune responses, leading to these skin eruptions.
- Further research is warranted to explore the role of suppressor T cell activity in this phenomenon.
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