Hairs (setae) from the Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) can result in an allergic reaction wherever the hair can penetrate a surface. This is a form of lepidopterism that occurs in Europe. The range of the moth is increasing due to a number of factors.
Scientific name: Thaumetopoea processionea
Features:
(1) develop nests on the trunk of an oak tree
(2) larvae migrate "in procession" (head-to-tail linear array)
The larvae of the moth carry a very high number of setae which can penetrate human skin or mucous membranes. They care thaumetopoein which is a protein that can cause release of histamine and other kinins.
Clinical response to exposure:
(1) dermatitis
(2) conjunctivitis and blepharal swelling
(3) respiratory symptoms with cough and dyspnea
(4) anaphylaxis
(5) rarely ophthalmia nodosa (if there is intraocular penetration)
Features of the dermatitis:
(1) severe pruritis
(2) irritative and/or urticarial dermatitis within 2 hours
(3) delayed reaction with a persistent papular dermatitis that may resemble insect bites and which may last for up to a month after the exposure
