Chemical conjunctivitis caused by the spray of A. buprestoides. Two-striped walkingstick.
Most North American walkingsticks are harmless, but one species, A. buprestoides, can defend itself by spraying an irritating chemical. We present the first reported case in the medical literature of a chemical conjunctivitis caused by the spray of the two-striped walkingstick. The insect has the ability to direct a spray at a predator's eyes, inducing a self-limited conjunctivitis. Keratitis has been reported in a dog, and this may also be a possible complication in humans. Prudence is dictated in handling this insect, and physicians should be aware of the potential for injury to the eyes.
Hatch
R L
RL
Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville.
Lamsens
S D
SD
Perchalski
J E
JE
D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D003231:Conjunctivitis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D007509:Irritants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D009987:Orthoptera; D013666:Tears / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism
D007509:Irritants