Bedbug bite: what does it look like? - briefly
A bed‑bug bite appears as a tiny, raised, red spot that often itches and may develop a small blister; multiple bites frequently form a linear or clustered pattern on exposed skin.
Bedbug bite: what does it look like? - in detail
Bed bug bites typically appear as small, raised welts that range from pink to deep red. The lesions are often grouped in a linear or clustered pattern, reflecting the insect’s feeding behavior as it moves along exposed skin. Individual spots measure about 2–5 mm in diameter, with a clear center surrounded by a slightly darker halo. The surrounding skin may exhibit mild swelling and a faint, itchy sensation that can develop into a more pronounced itch several hours after the bite.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Shape: Oval or round puncture marks with smooth edges.
- Color: Initial pinkish hue that may darken to reddish‑brown as inflammation progresses.
- Arrangement: Linear rows, “break‑fast‑plate” clusters, or zig‑zag formations, often spaced a few centimeters apart.
- Duration: Redness usually fades within 3–7 days; in sensitive individuals, lesions can persist longer and may develop a central puncture point or a tiny crust.
The reaction varies with personal sensitivity. Some people exhibit only faint erythema, while others develop pronounced wheals, vesicles, or secondary skin irritation from scratching. In rare cases, an allergic response can cause larger, urticaria‑like plaques extending beyond the immediate bite area.
Differential diagnosis should consider other arthropod bites (e.g., mosquitoes, fleas) and dermatologic conditions such as contact dermatitis or papular urticaria. Distinguishing factors for bed bug bites are the characteristic linear or clustered distribution and the tendency to affect exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms, and hands.