What is strofulum?
Strofulum is a type of allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) triggered by the bite of insects – mosquitoes, bedbugs, fleas and mites, among others.
Strofulum may also be called prurigo, strofulum, or papular urticaria.
What is the severity of strofulum?
In general, strofulum is a benign and self-limiting condition that can occur due to seasonal flare-ups over several years. It is a non-serious disease that is located only on the skin and is not contagious.
With age, episodes tend to be less frequent and milder.
Who is most affected by this allergic manifestation?
Strofulum can affect anyone at any age, but it is most common in children between the ages of 2 and 10 or in people with atopy, i.e. a history of allergic rhinitis, asthma or atopic eczema.
What are the most common symptoms?
Clinical manifestations can appear anywhere on the body, but usually more in the exposed regions of the skin – forearms, waist and legs, and usually sparing the face, genital and axillary region.
The signs and symptoms are:
- red, sometimes painful pimples
- rashes on the skin, which consist of papules or "drools," some with a small blister in the center
- itching, which can produce small sores and scabs when scratching
How can I relieve the symptoms?
The recommended measures for the relief of skin symptoms are:
- Bathing with warm water
- Application of fresh water panaches
- Use of thermal water sprays
- Application of soothing lotions and moisturizing cream
- Nail trimming to prevent sores from being sprung when scratching and thus prevent secondary infection
At what time of year is there a higher risk of having this allergic reaction?
Strofulum essentially occurs during spring and summer, since these are the times of the year when there are more insects in the environment.
How is the diagnosis made?
Diagnosis is clinical and is based on the patient's medical history and physical observation. Blood tests or other tests are not indicated, although sensitivity studies to certain insects/mosquitoes may be done.
How can I prevent the onset of strofulum?
The main measure to prevent this reaction is to decrease exposure to the causative agents. There are certain actions that can prevent insect bites and, consequently, the allergic reaction that induces strofulum:
- Decrease exposure to dust mites
- cleaning/vacuuming/washing of upholstery, mattresses, rugs, blankets, soft toys, among others
- Regularly disinfect domestic animals Apply repellents on the skin, clothing or air in environments with insects (mosquitoes and mosquitoes)
- disinfect the house in case of the presence of bedbugs, on wooden floors, walls lined with paper or mattresses, especially in older houses
What is the recommended treatment for strofulum?
Oral antihistamines can be used and anti-inflammatory cream or a low or moderate potency corticosteroid can be applied, always according to medical indication.
The application of antihistamine to the skin (topical) is not recommended.