Megalopyge opercularis Caterpillar Stings Reported to Texas Poison Centers

Abstract

M opercularis caterpillar stings reported to Texas poison centers were more frequently reported in July and October to November. Most of the patients were adults. The majority of patients were managed outside of healthcare facilities and did not have serious outcomes. Most of the adverse clinical effects were dermal in nature.

In vitro antitumor, pro-inflammatory, and pro-coagulant activities of Megalopyge opercularis J.E. Smith hemolymph and spine venom

“…About 10% presented nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, numbness, dizziness, headache, and fever. Treatments included washing by irrigation, applying tape to the sting site and pulling it off (to remove spines), and applying ice packs and baking soda, in addition to antihistamines, corticosteroids, or analgesics administration 22 .…”

What’s Eating You? Megalopyge opercularis

“…5 Megalopyge opercularis (Figure 1), the larval form of the flannel moth, is an important cause of caterpillar-associated dermatitis in the southern United States. 6,7 Megalopyge opercularis also is commonly known as the puss caterpillar, opossum bug, wooly slug, el perrito, tree asp, or Italian asp. 6 This lepidopteran insect is mainly found in the southeastern and southcentral United States, with noted particular abundance in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.…”

“…6,7 Megalopyge opercularis also is commonly known as the puss caterpillar, opossum bug, wooly slug, el perrito, tree asp, or Italian asp. 6 This lepidopteran insect is mainly found in the southeastern and southcentral United States, with noted particular abundance in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. 6,8 The puss caterpillar has 2 generations per year; the first develops during the months of June to July, and the second develops from September to October, carrying seasonal health hazards.…”

“…6 This lepidopteran insect is mainly found in the southeastern and southcentral United States, with noted particular abundance in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. 6,8 The puss caterpillar has 2 generations per year; the first develops during the months of June to July, and the second develops from September to October, carrying seasonal health hazards. 6,8 Megalopyge opercularis is tapered at the ends and can measure 2.5 to 3.5×1 cm at maturity.…”

“…6,8 The puss caterpillar has 2 generations per year; the first develops during the months of June to July, and the second develops from September to October, carrying seasonal health hazards. 6,8 Megalopyge opercularis is tapered at the ends and can measure 2.5 to 3.5×1 cm at maturity. It is covered by silky, long-streaked, wavy hairs that may appear single colored or as a mix of colors-from white to gray to brownforming a mid-dorsal crest.…”