What Causes Green Spot On Shoulder Following A Bug Bite?

Posted on Fri, 11 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 Answered on

Wed, 7 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My sister in law felt a bug bite her on the shoulder, she reached up and scratched off this tiny, spec that was dark green with these spikes that looked like cactus spines.
I have a picture

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Need more info

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

I understand there is a green spec following a big bite. In order to help you I need a few more details

1. Is the picture under the microscope? was any staining used ?
2. what symptoms does she have right now?
3. is there fever?

Please get back to me , I am awaiting your reply

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (6 hours later)

Yes it was under a pocket microscope, 100x, with no stain. No fever, just a spot that looks like an ant bite.

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Most likely to be a plant product

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for getting back. I am sorry for the short delay in my reply to you, I discussed the microscopic picture with my microbiology team at my hospital. We are of the following opinion

1. It is definitely not a microganism/ insect
2. It is most likely to be a plant product
3. Of the plant product it is most likely to be a seed covered with waxy plant material

If there is not local inflammation or reaction then you need not worry about it.

I hope I was of help, if you have any further doubts please get back to me

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T