Introduction to Moth Allergy and Envenomation

Moth allergy and envenomation affects many people worldwide, caused by moth scales, dust, or caterpillar toxins. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures is key to protecting your health.

Internal Link: See our Guide to Common Household Allergens for more on managing indoor triggers.

How Moths Cause Allergic Reactions

Moth Dust and Body Scales as Allergens

Moth scales and dust can become airborne, leading to respiratory and skin reactions.

Symptoms of Moth Allergy

  • Respiratory: Sneezing, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath
  • Skin: Itching, redness, hives (“moth rash”)
  • Eyes: Irritation and watery eyes

Internal Link: Check our Preventing Insect Allergies at Home page for cleaning tips.

High-Risk Moth Species

  • Tiger Moths (Asota caricae): Cause systemic allergic reactions and lepidopterism
  • Oak Processionary Moths: Caterpillar hairs trigger skin and respiratory reactions
  • Other Insects: Related species like caddis flies and chironomid midges also contribute to allergic responses

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![Moth allergy and envenomation from tiger moth exposure](images/tiger-moth-allergy.jpg)

Caterpillar Envenomation and Health Risks

What is Erucism?

Erucism occurs when caterpillar spines inject toxins, causing pain, swelling, or systemic symptoms.

Notable Toxic Caterpillars

  • Puss Moth (Megalopyge opercularis) – painful stings in North America
  • Lonomia obliqua – severe hemorrhagic syndrome in South America; requires specific serum
  • African Silkworm (Anaphe venata) – can cause thiamine deficiency
  • Pine Processionary Caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) – causes skin and occupational reactions

Internal Link: For more, see Managing Outdoor Insect Hazards.

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![Moth allergy and envenomation from Lonomia caterpillar](images/lonomia-caterpillar.jpg)

Populations Most at Risk

  • Individuals with genetic predispositions
  • People with asthma or COPD
  • Occupational exposure: insect farmers, beekeepers
  • Children and outdoor workers
  • Residents in outbreak-prone regions

Internal Link: Learn about High-Risk Groups for Insect Allergies.

Diagnosis of Moth Allergy and Envenomation

Common Diagnostic Methods

  • Skin Prick Tests (SPT) for immediate hypersensitivity
  • IgE antibody detection using CAP, ISAC, or Immunoblot
  • Mast cell tryptase measurement after exposure
  • Double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC)
  • Detailed patient history

Outbound Link: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Preventing Moth Allergy and Envenomation

Minimize Indoor Exposure

  • Store clothes in airtight containers
  • Regular cleaning and vacuuming
  • Use moth traps and keep windows closed

Personal Protective Measures

  • Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, gloves, and eye protection
  • In high-risk areas, use tight-fitting respirators

Environmental Management

  • Monitor caterpillar populations
  • Prune host plants and trees to reduce infestations

Internal Link: See Insect Prevention Strategies for outdoor management tips.

Supportive and Emergency Care

  • Pain relief: topical anesthetics, analgesics
  • Antihistamines: reduce itching and hives
  • Respiratory support: nebulized beta-agonists or steroids
  • Epinephrine: for severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis

Specialist Consultation

  • Toxicologist for caterpillar stings
  • Hematologist for Lonomia envenomation

Immunotherapy

  • Gradual desensitization for chronic allergies

Outbound Link: WHO Guidelines on Venomous Caterpillars