Insect (arthropod) bites are typically pink or red and are often round in shape. Tense, fluid-filled blisters can form as a reaction to insect bites. This image displays a red/pink, round lesion typical of an insect bite. This image displays a child with small, pink bumps typical of insect bite reactions. This image displays insect bites with bloody crusts due to severe itch and scratching. Insect bites in exposed skin areas may be numerous and leave flat, brown marks for weeks after the bites are healed. Insect bites are often multiple and may be grouped as on the hand in this individual. An older, flatter, partially healed bite is seen on the upper part of the hand. Insect bites may be numerous; when so many are seen on the lower legs, consider fleas as the culprit.
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Bug Bite or Sting:
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Picture of Bug Bite or Sting: Insect (arthropod) bites are typically pink or red and are often round in shape. Divider line
Insect (arthropod) bites are typically pink or red and are often round in shape.
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Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
Depending upon the type of insect bite and reaction, your primary care giver might treat you in the following manner.

For insect bites:
  • Prescription topical corticosteroids 
  • Muscle relaxants, pain medicines, antivenin, antibiotics, and sometimes local surgery to relieve venomous insect bites
For stings:
  • Antihistamines or corticosteroids
  • Epinephrine, antihistamines, corticosteroids, intravenous fluids, and oxygen (for anaphylaxis)
  • Injectable epinephrine, for those with known severe allergic reactions 
  • Immunotherapy to reduce the chance of repeated severe reactions
Last Modified: 29 Feb 2008

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