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Chigger bite - close-up of blisters
Chigger bite - close-up of blisters

Chiggers
Definition:
Chiggers are the larvae of a type of mite found in tall grass and weeds. Chigger bites cause severe itching.

Alternative Names:
Harvest mite; Red mite

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The mites are found in the southern part of the U.S. and in other countries. They are usually restricted to certain habitats such as berry patches, tall grass and weeds, and woodland edges. The larvae attack humans around the waist, the ankles, or in warm skin folds. The itching usually occurs several hours after the larvae attach to the skin. The larvae can sometimes be seen in the center of a papule that has not been scratched.
Symptoms:
  • Severe itching
  • Red pimple-like bumps (papules) or hives
  • Skin rash or lesion on sun exposed area only
    • Red (erythematous)
    • With itching
  • Skin rash or lesion with visible larva in the center of lesions
Signs and tests:
Examination of the rash is usually sufficient to diagnose chiggers.
Treatment:
The objective of treatment is to relieve the itching. Antihistamines and corticosteroid creams or lotions (see corticosteroids - topical - low potency) may be helpful.
Expectations (prognosis):
This condition heals itself without treatment.
Complications:

Secondary infection may follow intense scratching as a complication.
Calling your health care provider:
Apply home treatment and call your health care provider if there are signs of complications.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if rash is itching intensely, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
Prevention:
Avoid contaminated areas, if known.
Review Date: 8/14/2001
Reviewed By: Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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