What do bedbug and lice bites look like? - briefly
Bedbug bites are small, red, itchy welts that often occur in a line or cluster on exposed skin. Lice bites appear as tiny, raised, itchy spots, usually near the scalp, neck, or shoulders.
What do bedbug and lice bites look like? - in detail
Bite marks from Cimex species are typically small, raised papules ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm in diameter. The lesions often appear in linear or clustered patterns, reflecting the insect’s feeding behavior as it moves along exposed skin. The central area may be slightly pink or red, surrounded by a faint halo of erythema. Pruritus usually intensifies within a few hours and can persist for several days. In some individuals, a vesicular or pustular reaction develops, especially if secondary infection occurs.
Pediculus capitis and Pediculus humanus bites manifest as pinpoint, erythematous punctures, most commonly located on the scalp, neck, shoulders, and waistline. The lesions are usually less than 1 mm in size, often accompanied by a thin, translucent wheal. Intense itching is a hallmark, frequently leading to excoriation and secondary hyperpigmentation. Unlike bedbug lesions, lice bites rarely form linear groups; instead, they appear as isolated points or small clusters corresponding to the head‑lice’s limited mobility.
Key distinguishing characteristics:
- Size: bedbug papules 2–5 mm; lice punctures < 1 mm.
- Arrangement: bedbug bites in rows or clusters; lice bites isolated or in tiny groups.
- Coloration: bedbug lesions may show a central red spot with a peripheral halo; lice lesions are uniformly pink or red without a halo.
- Evolution: bedbug marks can develop vesicles or pustules; lice marks remain flat, occasionally becoming crusted from scratching.
Both reactions involve histamine‑mediated inflammation, but the duration of itching differs: bedbug‑induced pruritus peaks after 24–48 hours, whereas lice‑related itching can begin within minutes and persist as long as the infestation continues. Prompt identification of these visual cues assists in targeted treatment and prevents unnecessary dermatological interventions.