Paederus dermatitis in Najaf province of Iraq

OBJECTIVE: To assess the different epidemiological and clinical features of Paederus dermatitis in Najaf province.

METHODS: This prospective observational study, including the clinical assessment of 87 patients with definitive diagnosis of Paederus dermatitis, who presented to a dermatology clinic in the Najaf province of Iraq, was carried out from April 2006 to April 2007.

RESULTS: The peak time of presentation was in May, and the face and neck were the most common sites of involvement. Frightening appearance of the lesion is the main cause that brought the patients to the hospital. The symptoms of burning and stinging were of mild degree. Clinically, the most common presentation comprised geographic and linear erythematous plaques with micropustules. Kissing lesions were seen in 5.7% of cases. Periorbital involvement was recorded in 16.1% of the cases.

CONCLUSION: Paederus dermatitis is a common skin condition in Najaf province. The awareness of this condition among the medical practitioners will aid in the early diagnosis and prompt treatment of the disease. Also, overall public awareness can help decrease the incidence of Paederus dermatitis.