title: Literature review of the causes, treatment, and prevention of dermatitis linearis.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Dermatitis linearis is a skin condition that affects both local populations and travelers alike. Dermatitis linearis is caused by some beetles within the subtribe Paederina and manifests as painful lesions, blisters and intense itching. Though outbreaks are widespread, the condition as a whole still remains relatively unknown.
  
  
  METHODS
  An extensive search of the existing Paederus literature was conducting in order to elucidate relevant information regarding the occurrence of outbreaks, seasonality, exposure and symptom onset, and management of dermatitis linearis. Special consideration was given to behavioral and environmental factors.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Epidemics of dermatitis linearis are most commonly observed during the rainy season or after particularly hot and humid weather patterns. Symptom onset is typically delayed 6-48 h after exposure. The most common symptoms are stinging, burning and itching, with later development of erythematous plaques and blisters. Though symptoms of dermatitis linearis resolve spontaneously, wet compresses, antihistamines and topical steroid ointments and lotions are recommended to alleviate symptoms.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Dermatitis linearis in travelers and local populations can be prevented through minimizing or modifying sources of artificial light, using pesticide-treated nets near beds and lights, general housekeeping and vegetation maintenance, and by raising awareness regarding the conditions caused by Paederus.
authors.affiliation: Georgia State University, School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30302 USA.
authors.forename: Brooke A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Beaulieu
authors.affiliation: Research Entomologist, Entomology Branch, Department of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta GA, 30329, USA xjs7@cdc.gov.
authors.forename: Seth R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Irish
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D001517:Coleoptera; D003872:Dermatitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D006801:Humans; D012621:Seasons; D014195:Travel
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones
keywords: Dermatitis linearis; Nairobi fly; Paederus