A Clinical Analysis of 29 Cases of Centipede Bite

Kim, Min Gu; Kim, Jung Ah; Rho, Nark Kyoung; Kim, Beom Jun; Kim, Won Serk; Lee, Dong Youn; Lee, Joo Heung; Yang, Jun Mo; Lee, Eil Soo

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The relative lack of knowledge and interest in arthropod bites has made it difficult to investigate centipede envenomation in Korea.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of centipede bites in Korea.
METHODS
A prospective study of clinical manifestations in patients with centipede bites was performed during the period of May 2004 to April 2005. Factors investigated included sex, age, location and time of assaults, affected parts of the body, signs and symptoms, treatment modalities, and complications. All centipedes that were involved were brought to the clinic, examined, and species-identified.
RESULTS
A total of 29 cases of centipede bite were identified. Scolopendra subspinipes was the causative centipede in all cases. Centipede bites occurred exclusively in summer (June, July, and August). Most of the bites which occurred during the daytime happened outdoors, whereas most nocturnal assaults happened indoors. All patients were bitten on an exposed area and the fingers (37.9%) were the most frequent sites of involvement. Local reactions developed at the bitten sites and usually remained localized. Erythema (100%) and local swelling (79.3%) were the most prominent features. The majority of patients did not show severe systemic symptoms. Most lesions healed completely within a week, without complications.
CONCLUSION
Centipede bites are a common occurrance in rural and island areas during the summer season. Dermatologists need to be aware of the clinical manifestations in order to make an appropriate diagnosis and proper treatment decision.