Simulium dermatitis in man--clinical and biological features in South Africa. A case report.

Simulium bite reaction is described; the lesions were present mainly on the lower legs as palpable purpura, which persisted for 2 weeks with marked oedema and considerable discomfort. Simuliids are tiny bloodsucking flies, popularly known as blackflies or buffalo flies, belonging to the dipterous family Simuliidae. They occur world-wide, breed in fast-flowing streams, and are a major animal pest. This is the first description of blackfly bites in man in the South African literature.

A further indigenous case of 'North American' blastomycosis from South Africa. Importance of skin lesions in early diagnosis.

A case of disseminated blastomycosis is reported. The patient presented with lung involvement, lupus vulgaris-like lesions, mainly of the face, and subcutaneous abscesses overlying areas of bone destruction. The diagnosis was confirmed by mycological microscopy and culture of skin material from involved areas. The importance of early diagnosis and the favourable response to treatment are emphasized.