Oral Mucosal Envenomation of an Infant by a Puss Caterpillar

The term "puss caterpillar" describes the larva of at least two Megalopygidae species common to North America. Accidental contact with the hairs (setae) is intensely painful, and serious systemic effects have been reported. We describe the envenomation of an infant through the face and oral mucosa, resulting in severe discomfort, limited oral intake, and vomiting, but no other untoward effects.