Abstract

LIMA, Carlos Alberto Jatobá et al. Exogenous pigmentation in toes feigning ischemia of the extremities: a diagnostic challenge brought by arthropods of the Diplopoda Class ("millipedes"). An. Bras. Dermatol. [online]. 2010, vol.85, n.3, pp. 391-392. ISSN 0365-0596.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0365-05962010000300018.

A 24 year-old patient reported having stepped on a millipede. When examined the patient presented cyanotic and erythematous macules on the first three toes of his right foot, and also complained of local pain and paresthesia, with palpable arterial flows. Millipedes are cylindrical segmented arthropods that when threatened form into curls and release quinones and other irritant and pigmentary substances. The cyanotic color reminds ischaemic tissular distress fact that may confuse professionals in Emergency Rooms when the clinical report is unclear.

Keywords : Arthropods; Brazil; Dermatology; Poisonous animals.