Pulicosis

Pulicosis
Classification and external resources

Flea bites on the back of a human
ICD-10 W57
ICD-9 919.4

Pulicosis (also known as "flea bites") is a skin condition caused by several species of fleas, including the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). The condition manifests itself after as few as one flea bite and may not even be noticed. Within minutes skin irritation begins. This can range from extremely mild to severe. After 48-72 hours, a more severe form may begin to spread throughout the body. Symptoms include swelling of the bitten area, erythema, ulcers of the mouth and throat, restlessness and soreness of the areolas. If these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical attention. Within 1 week the condition may spread through the lymph nodes and begin affecting the central nervous system. Permanent nerve damage can occur.[1]:450

See also

References

  1. ^ James, William D.; Berger, Timothy G.; et al. (2006). Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: clinical Dermatology. Saunders Elsevier. ISBN 0-7216-2921-0. 
Arthropod bites and stings
Vertebrate
Other