New pandemic, old bugs: A case of cimicosis (Bed Bug) in a neglected elderly patient during the coronavirus disease quarantine

Rev. Soc. Bras. Med. Trop; 54 (), 2021
Publication year: 2021

Abstract Bed bugs are hematophagous arthropods that can parasitize humans. During the coronavirus disease pandemic, there has been an increase in elderly neglect. A man in his 90s came to the hospital complaining of generalized pruritus. Despite being a dependent patient, he was left alone in a home by his relatives during the pandemic. Examination revealed inflammatory nodules in addition to a live bed bug crawling over his trunk. Identifying a bed bug during consultation is an uncommon feature that can help determine a particular diagnosis. As this case shows, the need for social isolation during pandemics can contribute to elder abuse and neglect.

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