Pediatric papular urticaria (insect bite dermatitis), skin becomes hardened and wrinkled; how to treat?
Disease description:
My child has developed papular urticaria (insect bite dermatitis), and the skin has become hardened and wrinkled. How should this be treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Pediatric papular urticaria is a localized skin allergic and inflammatory reaction that occurs after insect bites. Skin hardening and wrinkling may be caused by local tissue edema and fibrosis due to inflammation. Proteins and other substances present in the saliva or venom injected during insect bites trigger an immune response in the body.
Firstly, prevent the child from scratching to avoid breaking the skin and causing infection. The bite area can be washed with soap and water to neutralize acidic substances in the insect venom. Local cold compresses can help reduce swelling and itching.
Topical medications such as corticosteroid creams can be used under a doctor's guidance. These medications have anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects and can relieve symptoms such as skin hardening and wrinkling. If itching is severe, oral loratadine syrup may be taken to relieve itching.
If signs of local infection appear, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or purulent discharge, antibiotic treatment is required, such as topical mupirocin ointment or oral amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium.
In addition, it is important to keep the child's skin clean, change clothing regularly, and reduce opportunities for insect bites by using mosquito nets and avoiding areas with high insect activity such as grassy areas.
