Dermatitis linearis outbreak associated with Paederus balcanicus in Austria

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Dermatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Dermatitis linearis is a toxic skin condition caused by contact with Paederus beetles.
• Outbreaks are common in tropical/subtropical regions but are an emerging concern in Central Europe, potentially linked to climate change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the first reported outbreak of dermatitis linearis in Central Europe.
• To identify the specific Paederus species responsible for the outbreak in Austria.

Main Methods:

• On-site inspection and beetle collection using light and pitfall traps at Lake Neusiedl, Austria.
• Morphological classification and DNA barcoding of collected Paederus specimens.

Main Results:

• 32 Paederus beetles were collected, identified as Paederus balcanicus via morphology and DNA barcoding.
• Paederus balcanicus was confirmed as the causative agent of dermatitis linearis in the affected individuals.
• Lesions healed with topical steroids, though some scarring and hyperpigmentation persisted.

Conclusions:

• This study reports the first outbreak of dermatitis linearis linked to autochthonous Paederus species in Austria.
• Contact with Paederus balcanicus can cause dermatitis linearis in humans.
• Preventative measures are crucial in areas where Paederus beetles occur to avoid future outbreaks.