What do flea bite marks look like? - briefly
Flea bites appear as tiny, raised, red or pink papules, usually 1–3 mm across. They commonly occur in clusters or linear patterns on the lower legs, ankles, or feet, are intensely itchy, and may be surrounded by a pale halo.
What do flea bite marks look like? - in detail
Flea bites present as small, red papules typically measuring 2–5 mm in diameter. The lesions often display a central punctum where the insect’s mouthparts penetrated the skin, surrounded by a halo of erythema that may be slightly raised. Intensity of coloration ranges from pink to deep crimson, depending on the individual’s inflammatory response.
Key visual features include:
- Clustered arrangement, frequently in linear or “break‑fast‑nipple” patterns reflecting the flea’s jumping behavior.
- Pronounced itching that can lead to excoriation, producing secondary hyperpigmentation or crusting.
- Rapid development of a wheal within minutes, followed by a papular stage that persists for several days before fading.
Typical locations are the lower extremities—ankles, calves, and feet—where fleas most often make contact. In children, bites may also appear on the torso or arms if the animal’s fur contacts these areas.
Differential characteristics compared with other arthropod bites:
- Mosquito bites are usually isolated, larger, and exhibit a more diffuse swelling without a central punctum.
- Bed‑bug bites often appear in a straight line of three to five puncta (“breakfast‑nipple” sign) but are generally larger and may include a dark central spot.
Healing progresses from erythema to a flat, pink macule that may linger for weeks, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Persistent lesions warrant evaluation for possible secondary infection or allergic reaction.