Symptoms
Possible symptoms following contact include:
- Severe itching
- Skin rash, red papules, nodules, toxic-irritant dermatitis.
- Wheal formation, urticaria.
- Angioedema
- Conjunctivitis, swelling of the eyelids.
- Sore throat, sore throat
- Respiratory inflammation, bronchitis, bronchoconstriction, breathing problems, cough.
- Fever, feeling sick
Rarely, a life-threatening anaphylaxis can occur. Pets such as dogs or cats can also come into contact with the caterpillars and show corresponding symptoms.
Causes
The cause of the symptoms is contact with the poisonous stinging hairs (setae) of the larvae of the oak processionary moth . These moths are native to southern Europe and are now found in countries in central Europe, the United Kingdom, and many countries, probably due to global warming. The insects mainly attack free-standing oaks or oaks growing at the edge of forests, forming nests with webs. The stinging hairs, which are about 100 to 200 µm long, contain the toxic protein thaumetopoein, which leads to a non-allergic or even allergic release of histamine and other mediators. The hairs also mechanically irritate the skin and mucosa and sting like small needles. The stinging hairs can also exert their effects in indirect contact. For example, they may remain locally on or under trees, be transferred from pets or clothing, or be blown long distances with the wind. It should be noted that hairs and abandoned nests pose a risk for years.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made on the basis of the patient’s history and clinical presentation. It may present difficulties if the disease is caused only by the stinging hairs and there has been no direct contact with the insects.
Nonpharmacologic treatment
- Change clothes and wash at over 60°C, clean shoes.
- Remove stinging hairs with tape or tape
- Shower, bath
- Eye wash with water
Drug treatment
Antihistamines:
- Can be administered perorally and externally. They cancel the effects of histamine and have anti-allergic properties.
Glucocorticoids:
- Glucocorticoids are given depending on the clinical picture locally (eye drops, creams, inhalations) or in a severe course also internally, for example in the form of cortisone tablets or as injections. They are anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-allergic.
Beta2-sympathomimetics:
- Beta2 sympathomimetics dilate the bronchi and improve breathing when respiratory problems occur. They are also combined with glucocorticoids.
Epinephrine:
- Is available as an auto-injector or injection preparation and is injected in case of anaphylaxis.
Anti-pruritic agent:
The eyes should be provided in ophthalmological therapy, for example, antiseptics.
Prevention
- Contact with oak processionary moths and their nests should be avoided at all costs. This also applies to places that have been affected in the past.
- Professional removal by specialized personnel (eg firefighters) if there is a high risk, for example, by vacuuming and the use of insecticides and biological agents such as var. .
- Information to residents and the general public.
- Put up warning signs and barriers.
