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What Causes Small Brown Moles On Arms After An Unknown Insect Bite?
Question: For a few weeks I have noticed some sort of tiny insect on my arms and back of hands. I have many small brown moles on my arms and scattered all over my body.. They are all benign and I have been seen and treated by the Veterans Administration for years, watching for sun-caused pre-cancerous moles and other small growths. Usually they are frozen off successfully. My current problem is that these tiny insects resemble the tiny moles I have. I recently found I could clearly see 3 types of intruder: (1) tiny blood-red pinhesd sized "things," (2) Slightly larger brown "things" which look like a miniature cockroacch with many tiny, easily seen "feelers" or "legs" waving wildly on both sides of its body. (3) The third is a similar sized (to brown one), white "cotton-ball" looking thing. . All three of these "things move about on my skin, very very slowly. I can, and have, easily removed these insects(?) with a sharp blade (razor) or point (needle, etc). They are all three types soft and easily crushed and removed. Also quite visible to nakd eye.
The V.A. today did not let me see a doctor but gave me Permethrin as if I had head lice, which I do not. I tried to see the dermatology dept. but will have to wait until Monday. On-line info concentrates on "body lice" and nothing even remotely resembles my "bugs". I have no itching or swelling or any other noticeable reaction of my body to these pests. They each-type settle in one spot and slowly over 24-48 hours sort of absorb themselves into my skin. What's up?
Sincerely, XXXXXX
The V.A. today did not let me see a doctor but gave me Permethrin as if I had head lice, which I do not. I tried to see the dermatology dept. but will have to wait until Monday. On-line info concentrates on "body lice" and nothing even remotely resembles my "bugs". I have no itching or swelling or any other noticeable reaction of my body to these pests. They each-type settle in one spot and slowly over 24-48 hours sort of absorb themselves into my skin. What's up?
Sincerely, XXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Objectivity & then remember to treat fomites too
Detailed Answer:
Hi there Mr XXXXX
I read your detailed history & concerns & empathise with you.
From what I gleaned, you desire 'objectivity'.
Please do collect these 'insects' you allude to & take them across to a laboratory or anyone you know who has access to a regular microscope.
This will help you achieve 2 objectives: 1. Documentation & clear idea of the genre of the insect we are dealing with 2. Photographic evidence of the same for future references.
Based on this & if the insect mentioned is a tick (most likely given your description) or louse or Mite, you could go ahead with the 'specific' treatment.
Always remember that with the treatment of yourself, one has to be particular about treatment of your 'fomites' & 'surroundings' to prevent recurrences.
I trust this will help you onwards in your future course of action & I suggest taking a copy of this transcript across to your consultation on Monday.
I do wish you well & a clear skin soon & continued good health. At 81, I dare say you will have faced many adversities in life & this too shall be overcome. Keep the faith & do hope you are soon rid of these 'insects'.
Good Luck & Godspeed!
Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD
Objectivity & then remember to treat fomites too
Detailed Answer:
Hi there Mr XXXXX
I read your detailed history & concerns & empathise with you.
From what I gleaned, you desire 'objectivity'.
Please do collect these 'insects' you allude to & take them across to a laboratory or anyone you know who has access to a regular microscope.
This will help you achieve 2 objectives: 1. Documentation & clear idea of the genre of the insect we are dealing with 2. Photographic evidence of the same for future references.
Based on this & if the insect mentioned is a tick (most likely given your description) or louse or Mite, you could go ahead with the 'specific' treatment.
Always remember that with the treatment of yourself, one has to be particular about treatment of your 'fomites' & 'surroundings' to prevent recurrences.
I trust this will help you onwards in your future course of action & I suggest taking a copy of this transcript across to your consultation on Monday.
I do wish you well & a clear skin soon & continued good health. At 81, I dare say you will have faced many adversities in life & this too shall be overcome. Keep the faith & do hope you are soon rid of these 'insects'.
Good Luck & Godspeed!
Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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