First report of human infestation dermatitis due to chigger mite (Acari: Trombiculidae) in Iran

In this study, a rare chigger mite infestation in Faridan County, Isfahan Province in the central region of Iran has been reported. Several demography data of patients were surveyed. A clinical examination of the whole skin was performed by the physician. 44 patients were admitted to the Mobarakeh Township Clinic Center. On the skin of all the victims, inflammation, irritation and, severe pruritus were observed. The clinical manifestations mostly included acute itching and maculopapular rashes on the trunk and proximal limbs. Infestation rate among women (65.4%) were more than men (34.6%). The highest rate of chigger bites occurred within children ages 4–14 (64.7%). After that the infestation rate was high among with ages 35–44 years old (29.3%). The highest frequency of chigger bite infestation were recorded in July (37.3%), September (34.5%) and August (28.2%), respectively. Successful treatment of patients and their families was achieved following two weeks application of medicines (calamine, dexamethasone and sulfur soap).