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Cercarial dermatitis in Adult
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Cercarial dermatitis in Adult

Contributors: Vivian Wong MD, PhD, Edith Lederman MD, Susan Burgin MD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Swimmer's itch, also known as cercarial dermatitis or clam digger's itch, is an allergic dermatitis to the abortive penetration into the skin by cercariae of mammalian and avian schistosomes (Trichobilharzia and Bilharziella) after exposure to water containing the intermediate snail hosts. The schistosomes may cause an immunological reaction in the form of cercarial dermatitis in individuals who have been sensitized to the schistosomes.

There is a worldwide distribution, with human schistosomes more common in tropical climates (most commonly Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma hematobium).

Swimmer's itch typically presents as a pruritic rash on skin 24 hours after exposure to water containing cercaria in endemic areas. The cercariae enter the stratum corneum and die within hours. The rash is associated with moderate pruritus that is self-limiting but may persist for several weeks. Some patients may develop a delayed rash several days after initial exposure.

Cercarial dermatitis may become more severe with repeated exposure. Patients may develop edema, papulovesicles, and intense pruritus.

Rare presentations have been reported on the upper extremities after cleaning fish tanks.

There are no age or sex predilections.

Codes

ICD10CM:
B65.3 – Cercarial dermatitis

SNOMEDCT:
187115002 – Cutaneous schistosomiasis

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Last Reviewed:12/17/2018
Last Updated:01/09/2019
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Cercarial dermatitis in Adult
A medical illustration showing key findings of Cercarial dermatitis : Primarily truncal distribution, Symmetric extremities distribution, Fresh water exposure, Saltwater exposure
Clinical image of Cercarial dermatitis - imageId=2032752. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'Erythematous and edematous papules, many with a blanched halo, and some tiny crusts on the leg.'
Erythematous and edematous papules, many with a blanched halo, and some tiny crusts on the leg.
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.