Cutaneous allergic vasculitis due to Solenopsis geminata (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) envenomation in Indonesia.

ABSTRACT

Severe cutaneous allergic vasculitis in a 60 year-old Caucasian male following the bite of the tropical fire ant, Solenopsis geminata (F.) is reported. Over the course of 8 weeks, the pathology progressed from an extensive red papular urticaria to vasculitis with peri-vascular inflammation and ulceration of the skin on the feet, ankles and lower limbs. Many of the affected areas of the skin eventually became covered with black eschar associated with further tissue breakdown and ulcer formation. After debridement, compression dressings, antimicrobial ointment and corticosteroids, complete healing eventually took place with only residual scarring. An awareness of the severe dermatologic reactions caused by a bite of S. geminata, albeit rare, is clinically important. Recognizing the characteristic skin lesions caused by the bite of S. geminata, treated with prompt administration of appropriate chemotherapy will speed recuperation of the patient and reduce possible secondary complications.