How to treat a rove beetle bite

Paederus Dermatitis When the rove beetle (Paederus spp.) is subjected to friction, compression, or impact, it releases a vesicant toxin. Upon contact with human skin, patients experience a burning and stinging sensation within minutes, followed by the development of vesicles and bullae—often arranged linearly. The beetle’s venom is an acidic fluid; therefore, oral antihistamines—such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine tablets—are recommended to alleviate systemic and local symptoms. In severe cases—characterized by marked pain, pruritus, cutaneous oozing, or serosanguineous exudation—short-term intravenous administration of dexamethasone and calcium gluconate may be indicated.