Skeeter syndrome: what is it?

The mosquito bite Usually causes a small local reaction manifested by a slight swelling accompanied by redness and itching. These symptoms are caused by saliva of mosquito which contains polypeptides allergens usually triggering a release of histamine. This substance is responsible for inflammatory reaction regardless of the presence ofantibody allergic.

Described in the 2000s by Simmons and Peng, the syndrome of Skeeter is a larger systemic inflammatory reaction with a fever sometimes accompanied by vomiting and breathing difficulties. Clinically, it can manifest as cellulite (inflammation severe tissue cutaneous). This hypersensitivity reaction is linked to the production of specific antibodies (IgE and IgG) directed against the saliva of mosquitoes. Young children, people with an immunodeficiency or travelers in the presence ofcash of mosquitoes native are more likely to develop Skeeter syndrome.

Diagnosis of Skeeter syndrome

Clinical examination alone cannot differentiate inflammation caused by an allergic response to a sting mosquito from that caused by infection. the diagnostic is confirmed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Elisa) allowing the measurement of IgE and IgG specific to salivary glands from mosquitoes present in the region concerned. Underdiagnosed due to the lack of availability of kits containing mosquito saliva preparations, Skeeter’s syndrome is little described in France. Some isolated cases have been reported in different countries (Italy).

Therapeutic management of Skeeter syndrome

It is based on three methods: avoidance of bites by preventive measures (repellents, clothing), treatment antihistamine basic, treatment of symptoms lord of stings (corticosteroids, adrenaline if a anaphylactic shock is detected).