Morning blisters: cantharidin-related Meloidae burns

J Travel Med. 2018 Jul 1;25(1). doi: 10.1093/jtm/tay045.

Abstract

We report several cases of Meloidae-related blisters in French soldiers deployed to Mali. Blister beetles of the Meloidae family produce cantharidin, a blistering agent, for defensive purposes. These virtually cosmopolitan Coleoptera can cause significant nuisance to travellers and deployed soldiers especially during the rainy season in the Sahel region.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Blister / etiology*
  • Cantharidin*
  • Coleoptera*
  • France
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mali
  • Military Personnel / statistics & numerical data*
  • Seasons
  • Skin Diseases / etiology*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Cantharidin