"Bite" - what is it, definition of the term
The term refers to a localized skin injury produced when the mouthparts of a hematophagous arthropod—such as a tick, bug, louse, or flea—penetrate the epidermis, often resulting in erythema, itching, or swelling.
Detailed information
The wound produced by the mouthparts of arthropods results from the insertion of a stylet or mandible into the host’s skin. This event triggers a localized response that may include inflammation, itching, and potential secondary infection.
The four primary vectors differ in anatomy, feeding behavior, and health implications:
- Tick – possesses a barbed hypostome that anchors deeply, allowing prolonged blood extraction. Pathogen transmission often occurs during the attachment period, with risk of bacterial and viral diseases.
- Bug – refers to true bugs such as bedbugs; they employ a beak to pierce skin briefly, delivering saliva that contains anticoagulants. Reactions are typically limited to pruritic welts.
- Louse – utilizes mandibles to scrape superficial blood vessels. Infestations involve repeated minor wounds that can lead to secondary dermatitis and, in some species, transmission of bacterial agents.
- Flea – injects saliva laden with anticoagulant compounds while feeding. Bites appear as small, red papules that may develop into pustules; fleas also serve as vectors for plague‑causing bacteria.
Clinical management includes thorough cleansing of the site, application of topical antiseptics, and, when necessary, antihistamines to mitigate allergic reactions. Persistent symptoms warrant medical evaluation to exclude vector‑borne infections.