KUMJ | VOL. 23 | NO. 3 | ISSUE 91 | JULY-SEPTEMBER, 2025

Clinical Profile and Management of Paederus Dermatitis: Insights from Teledermatology in a Tertiary Care Setting in Nepal
Shrestha E, Basukala MS, Mishra A, Basnet A, Karn D, Tamang A

Abstract:
Background Paederus dermatitis is a cutaneous reaction caused by the contact of rove beetles (Paederus species) on the skin. Common in tropical regions, including Nepal, this dermatitis poses a diagnostic challenge in remote areas where dermatological care is limited. Teledermatology, employing telecommunications for remote consultations, has shown promise in addressing these limitations, yet its effectiveness in diagnosing and managing Paederus dermatitis in Nepal has yet to be thoroughly explored. Objective To analyze the clinical profile and management outcomes of Paederus dermatitis through teledermatology at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. Method A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 54 patients diagnosed with Paederus dermatitis through teledermatology at Dhulikhel Hospital between June 2024 and August 2024. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate associations with demographic and clinical factors. Result The study comprised 54 patients (59.26% males and 40.74% females) with a mean age of 28.4 ± 6.6 years. The most frequent symptoms included itching with a burning sensation (35.2%) and pain (24.1%). Linear erythematous plaques were observed in 42.6% of cases. Only 20.4% reported direct insect contact. Correlation analysis showed weak relationships between age, symptom duration, and lesion count. Multivariate regression indicated a baseline symptom duration of 2.7 days, with no significant association between age or lesion count and symptom duration. Conclusion Teledermatology is a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing Paederus dermatitis in rural Nepal, where direct access to dermatological care is limited. Future research should focus on expanding teledermatology’s role in other dermatological conditions.
Keyword : Dermatology, Paederus dermatitis, Pederin, Rural health, Teledermatology