RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The oak processionary caterpillar is found in several European countries. The larva of Thaumetopoea processionea Lepidoptera from the third to sixth larval instar develops poisonous hair (setae), filled with an urticating toxin that could lead to serious dermatitis, conjunctivitis and pulmonary problems (summarized as lepidopterism) on contact. OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of caterpillar dermatitis in a kindergarten population with three infested oak trees located in its enclosure. METHODS: We made a survey by the use of a questionnaire that was handed out to all parents with children regularly visiting that kindergarten. RESULTS: Twenty-four out of 47 (51%) questionnaires were returned and 10/24 (42%) children showing symptoms of lepidopterism were reported: 8/10 (80%) dermatitis, 5/10 (50%) pruritus, 5/10 (50%) respiratory distress, 4/10 (40%) malaise and/or fever and 1/10 (10%) conjunctivitis. Seven out of 10 visited a physician but the correct diagnosis was not posed in any case. Four out of 7 received medication (topical and/or systemic antihistaminics and/or steroids). CONCLUSIONS: Lepidopterism, an airborne disease caused by the setae of the processionary caterpillar, is a growing public health problem because of the increasing numbers of outbreaks, and it is still underestimated. Children seem to suffer more often from general symptoms and airway affection than adults.
Assuntos
Poluentes Atmosféricos/imunologia , Dermatite Alérgica de Contato/epidemiologia , Dermatite Alérgica de Contato/etiologia , Surtos de Doenças , Lepidópteros/imunologia , Distribuição por Idade , Animais , Creches , Pré-Escolar , Estudos de Coortes , Dermatite Alérgica de Contato/fisiopatologia , Feminino , Alemanha/epidemiologia , Humanos , Incidência , Larva/imunologia , Masculino , Berçários para Lactentes , Prognóstico , Distribuição por Sexo , Inquéritos e QuestionáriosRESUMO
Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome (NBCCS) is an autosomal-dominant disorder characterized by multiple basal cell carcinomas, jaw cysts, palmar/plantar pits, calcification of the falx cerebri, and spine and rib anomalies. The combination of clinical, imaging, and histological findings is helpful in identifying NBCCS patients. Imaging plays a crucial role in evaluation of these patients. We present a wide variety of clinical and radiological findings characteristic of this disease.