How does a tick bite look in a child? - briefly
A tick attachment on a child generally appears as a tiny, red or pink papule with a central puncture point where the mouthparts entered. When the tick becomes engorged, the spot may swell, become raised, and be surrounded by a halo of erythema.
How does a tick bite look in a child? - in detail
A tick attachment on a child typically presents as a small, dome‑shaped nodule on the skin. The lesion often measures 2–5 mm in diameter at the time of discovery, but may enlarge rapidly as the arthropod feeds. Key visual characteristics include:
- A raised, firm bump that may appear slightly red or pink.
- A central punctum or dark spot, representing the tick’s mouthparts embedded in the epidermis.
- Surrounding erythema that can be faint or pronounced, depending on the individual’s inflammatory response.
- Possible swelling of adjacent tissue, especially if the bite is located on the scalp, neck, armpit, groin, or behind the knees—areas where ticks commonly attach.
When the tick becomes engorged, the lesion expands to 8–10 mm or more, taking on a balloon‑like appearance. The skin may stretch, and the central punctum can become less visible. In some cases, a clear halo of lighter skin surrounds the erythema, forming a target‑shaped pattern.
Secondary signs may develop within hours to days:
- Localized itching or tenderness.
- Small vesicles or pustules forming on the rim of the bite.
- Fever, headache, or malaise, indicating possible transmission of pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi.
Prompt removal of the tick reduces the risk of disease progression. After extraction, the bite site often heals within 1–2 weeks, leaving a faint scar or residual discoloration. Persistent redness, expanding rash, or systemic symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation.