What do bites from bed lice look like? - briefly
Small, red, raised spots that may form a linear or grouped pattern and cause intense itching. The lesions often have a central punctum and can become swollen after scratching.
What do bites from bed lice look like? - in detail
Bed‑lice bites appear as tiny, red, raised spots that may develop a central puncture mark where the insect fed. The lesions are usually 1–3 mm in diameter and can become slightly swollen, forming a pale or pink wheal surrounded by a reddened halo. Itching is intense and often begins within a few hours after the bite.
Typical patterns include:
- A linear or staggered arrangement of several bites, reflecting the insect’s movement across the skin.
- Clusters of three to five lesions grouped together, especially on the trunk, shoulders, or arms.
- Isolated spots on exposed areas such as the neck, face, or forearms, when the host rolls onto the insect during sleep.
The reaction evolves over time. Initially, the spot is flat and pink; within 12–24 hours it may become a raised papule with a central punctum. After 48 hours, the lesion can turn a deeper red or develop a vesicle that may crust if scratched. In some cases, a secondary bacterial infection produces a yellowish center and increased tenderness.
Differentiating features from other arthropod bites:
- Bed‑lice bites are often found in a line or tight cluster, whereas flea bites tend to be scattered and mosquito bites are usually larger and more diffuse.
- The lesions are usually uniform in size and shape, lacking the larger, irregular welts typical of spider bites.
- The intense pruritus appears shortly after the bite, unlike the delayed pain associated with some other insects.
Resolution typically occurs within one to two weeks, leaving no permanent marks unless the skin is heavily scratched, which can cause scarring or hyperpigmentation.