Dermatological entomology. 25. Pyemotidae/predaceous mites
Mumcuoglu, Y.; Rufli, T.
Schweizerische Rundschau für Medizin Praxis 70(19): 860-865
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 1013-2058 PMID: 7243726 Document Number: 181356
The morphology, biology, epidemiology, diagnosis and control of Pyemotidae infesting man are described on the basis of the literature and studies carried out in Switzerland. These mites attack insects on grain crops, but if they occur in large numbers can also temporarily infest persons in contact with hay, grain or straw containing infested insects. The main species that attacks man is Pyemotes tritici (Lagreze-Fossat & Montagne). The bite produces an intensely itching urticarial wheal, followed by a central red papule surmounting the skin by 1-2 mm. A vesicle or pustule may form at the top of the papule, but is often removed by scratching. The main infestation sites are the back, abdomen and the inner forearms; the neck, legs and hands are rarely affected.