ABSTRACT
This chapter presents information on the medical importance, geographic distribution, biological aspects, and recommended procedures for treatment of five common urticating caterpillars: brown-tail moth larva, io moth caterpillar, puss caterpillar, saddleback caterpillar, and gypsy moth larvae. Many moth families have species whose larvae possess stinging or urticating spines or hairs. Without additional or ongoing contact with the offending caterpillar, lesions resolve at varying times depending on the species involved. Generally, saddleback and io caterpillar dermatitis subsides within 2–8 hours, gypsy moth dermatitis within 48 hours, and brown-tail moth and puss caterpillar disease (various systemic manifestations) within 7–10 days. Local treatment of urticating caterpillar stings consists of careful repeated stripping of the sting site with adhesive or cellophane tape to remove the spines, application of ice packs, and oral administration of antihistamines to help relieve itching and burning sensations.
