Description
Fleas are wingless insects that live on animals including humans. They feed on the blood by biting the animal and live in the fur or hair of the host. There are many different types of fleas but they all belong to the order Siphonaptera. Fleas are very small (1/16th-1/8th inch) and can jump from animals to humans. The most common way for a patient to be infected is by having a pet with fleas. Generally flea bites cause red itchy bumps. At times these bites can become infected with bacteria causing a skin infection called cellulitis. The bite of fleas can also carry diseases that are passed on to patients through the saliva of the flea during the bite. The most well-known disease is bubonic plague caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis.
Symptoms
Red itchy bumps. Fleas can sometimes be seen in the hair.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The diagnosis is made by talking to the patients and from the appearance of the bites.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Dermatology, Telemedicine Dermatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The diagnosis is made by talking to the patients and from the appearance of the bites.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Dermatology, Telemedicine Dermatology
Treatment
The fleas must be killed with special lotions or shampoos. The pets in the house must be treated as well. To completely prevent becoming re-infested the home must be treated with an insecticide. The bites themselves are best treated by reducing the itching using an antihistamine pill, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion.