Bedbug bite in Adult
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
Bedbugs have afflicted humans for thousands of years but became uncommon after World War II because of widespread use of modern insecticides. Beginning in 1995, a resurgence in bedbug infestations was noted, with rates almost doubling annually in North America, Western Europe, and Australia.
Increased national and international tourism, changes in pesticide use (including a prohibition on DDT), and use of recycled mattresses are thought to contribute to this epidemic of bedbug activity. Contrary to popular belief, cleanliness and hygiene have little impact on bedbug infestation. The insects are attracted to humans based on temperature and carbon dioxide production. Bedbugs are most prevalent in urban areas, likely due to population density and/or crowding.
At present, it is not believed that bedbugs are important vectors of disease transmission, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B or C. Patients with bedbug bites often come to medical attention seeking relief of resultant pruritus and skin lesions.
Codes
ICD10CM:W57.XXXA – Bitten or stung by nonvenomous insect and other nonvenomous arthropods, initial encounter
SNOMEDCT:
242649000 – Bite of bed bug
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Drug eruption
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis
- Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta
- Ecthyma
- Dermatitis herpetiformis
- Scabies – look for burrows
- Pediculosis corporis – examine hairs for lice and nits
- Flea bites – ask about pets
- Urticaria
- Papular urticaria
- Other arthropod bite or sting
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:05/04/2017
Last Updated:07/01/2020
Last Updated:07/01/2020
Bedbug bite in Adult