Как выглядят укусы блох на ребёнке? - briefly
Flea bites on a child present as tiny, red, itchy papules, frequently clustered in groups of three or more, most often located on the ankles, lower legs, or waist area. The spots may show a small central puncture and can become slightly raised or swollen.
Как выглядят укусы блох на ребёнке? - in detail
Flea bites on a toddler typically present as small, red papules ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm in diameter. The lesions often have a central punctum where the insect’s mouthparts entered the skin, and a surrounding halo of erythema that may be slightly raised. In many cases the center becomes a darker spot due to minor hemorrhage, giving the bite a “target” appearance.
The distribution pattern is usually clustered in groups of three to five lesions, often referred to as the “breakfast‑lunch‑dinner” arrangement. Common sites include:
- Ankle and lower leg areas, especially around socks or shoes
- Waistline and belt region where clothing contacts the skin
- Upper arms and hands if the child touches a pet’s fur
- Neck and shoulders if the infant lies on a pet‑covered surface
Pruritus is a frequent accompanying symptom; scratching can lead to excoriation, secondary bacterial infection, and increased inflammation. The itching intensity may rise 12–24 hours after the initial bite and can persist for several days.
Differential diagnosis should consider:
- Mosquito bites – typically isolated, larger wheals with a more diffuse edge.
- Bed‑bug bites – linear or “candle‑wick” patterns on exposed skin.
- Contact dermatitis – often confined to areas of direct contact with irritants.
If lesions become vesicular, ulcerated, or develop purulent discharge, a bacterial superinfection is likely and warrants medical evaluation. Laboratory testing is rarely required; visual assessment coupled with a history of pet exposure usually suffices.
Management focuses on symptom relief and prevention of infection:
- Cool compresses applied for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Topical corticosteroid cream (1% hydrocortisone) applied twice daily for up to five days.
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 5 mg for children over six months) to control itching.
- Antiseptic ointment (e.g., bacitracin) on excoriated areas to prevent bacterial colonization.
Preventive measures include regular grooming and bathing of domestic animals, vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and washing bedding at temperatures above 60 °C weekly. Environmental flea control products (e.g., insect growth regulators) applied according to manufacturer instructions further reduce infestation risk.
Monitoring the child’s skin for resolution is essential; most bites fade within 3–7 days without lasting marks. Persistent hyperpigmentation or scarring should be evaluated by a dermatologist.