What do flea bites look? - briefly
Flea bites appear as tiny, raised red spots, typically 1–3 mm in diameter, often grouped in clusters or lines on the lower legs and ankles. The lesions are intensely itchy and may develop a small surrounding halo of redness.
What do flea bites look? - in detail
Flea bites present as small, raised papules, typically 1–3 mm in diameter. The central point often appears as a pinpoint puncture, surrounded by a halo of redness that may be pale, pink, or reddish‑brown. The surrounding erythema usually measures 5–10 mm and can be slightly edematous. Individual lesions are intensely pruritic; scratching frequently enlarges the area and may cause secondary inflammation or crusting.
Common patterns include:
- Clustered arrangement – several bites grouped together, often in a linear or zig‑zag formation, reflecting the flea’s movement across the skin.
- Location preference – ankles, calves, feet, and lower legs are most frequently affected; bites may also appear on the waist, groin, or torso if the host is seated or lying down.
- Temporal evolution – within hours, the papule becomes red and swollen; after 24–48 hours, the center may turn pale while the halo persists. Healing typically occurs within a week, leaving no lasting mark unless secondary infection develops.
Differentiating features from other arthropod bites:
- Size – smaller than mosquito bites, which are usually 2–5 mm.
- Distribution – fleas tend to bite in groups; solitary lesions suggest a different source.
- Itch intensity – flea bites provoke a sharper, more immediate itch than many other insects.
If multiple lesions appear simultaneously, accompanied by intense itching and a characteristic clustered pattern on the lower extremities, the presentation aligns with flea bite morphology. Monitoring for signs of infection—pus, increasing warmth, or spreading redness—remains essential.