Category: arthropods

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*Case Study – Understanding a Non-Eczema condition and Secondary Infections in Patients

Hair snip

The patient is a 55-year-old male that comes to a Veterans Hospital on an outpatient basis for his periodic examination. He has a history of homelessness and chronic substance abuse. He states that he has clean not been abusing any substance for the past year. He also has a medical history significant for COPD, diabetes, and tobacco use. He currently presents with a two week history of what he describes as eczema around his ears and the back of his neck.

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Healthcare Impact of Arthropod Identification: Homeless Patient Case-Part Two

The arthropod submitted was identified as the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys). The bug is not an ectoparasite. It is not known parasitize or be a source of disease whether directly or indirectly. The stink bug gets its name from its ability to produce a pungent odor when mishandled or threatened. This is thought to be a defensive adaptation of the arthropod that helps prevent it from being eaten by birds and lizards. They are generally a nuisance in homes where they can cause an infestation.Â