L50.8
DESCRIPTION
Hypersensitivity response to insect bites.
Initial lesion is a red papule, which may blister, become excoriated, and then heal with hyperpigmentation. Usually occur in crops over several months.
Common and often severe in HIV infections (Papular pruritic eruption, PPE).
GENERAL MEASURES
Reduce exposure to insects by treating pets, using mosquito nets and fumigating houses regularly. Use of insect repellents may be helpful.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
New, inflamed lesions:
- Hydrocortisone 1%, topical, apply daily for 5 days.
For relief of itch:
Children
- Chlorphenamine, oral, 0.1 mg/kg/dose 6–8 hourly. See paediatric dosing tool.
Adults
- Chlorphenamine, oral, 4 mg, 6–8 hourly.
Note: Chlorphenamine is sedating and in mild cases may be used only at night.
For long term use in adults and school going children:
Children: 2–6 years of age
- Cetirizine, oral, 5 mg once daily. See paediatric dosing tool.
Children > 6 years of age and adults
- Cetirizine, oral, 10 mg once daily.
CAUTION
Do not give an antihistamine to children < 2 years of age.
REFERRAL
Non-responsive and chronic cases.