Caterpillars

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Caterpillars (long, fuzzy, segmented insects) are unable to pierce the skin with their bite. However, their hairs may become embedded in the skin or eyes, causing symptoms confined to the area of the penetration.

Some caterpillar hairs can be released into the air, where they can be inhaled causing respiratory irritation. Eating caterpillars may cause an upset stomach.

Review Date: 05/08/2006
Reviewed By: Janeen R. Azare, PhD, MSPH, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.