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Trombiculiasis: an underreported ectoparasitosis in Sicily
Valentina Caputo1, Fiorella Santi1, Antonio Cascio1
1Department of Dermatology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
Le Infezioni in Medicina
|March 12, 2018
Summary
Trombiculiasis, a skin infestation by mite larvae, causes itchy rashes. Neotrombicula autumnalis larvae may transmit pathogens like Borrelia burgdorferi.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Parasitology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Trombiculiasis is an underreported ectoparasitosis caused by trombiculid mite larvae.
- Clinical signs include pruritic macules and papules on covered skin.
- Neotrombicula autumnalis larvae are implicated as potential vectors for Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum.
Observation:
- A case of trombiculiasis caused by Neotrombicula autumnalis larvae is presented.
- Larvae are habitual parasites of various vertebrate hosts.
- Clinical signs included pruritic erythematous and urticarial macules and papules.
Findings:
- Neotrombicula autumnalis larvae were identified as the causative agent.
- The mites infested covered, thin, and glabrous skin areas.
- The presentation was typical for trombiculiasis.
Implications:
- Underreporting of trombiculiasis may lead to delayed diagnosis.
- Neotrombicula autumnalis larvae may act as vectors for Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum.
- Increased awareness is needed for this common yet underreported ectoparasitosis.
