What Causes Swelling And Itching On The Calves And Ankles?

Posted on Tue, 15 Aug 2017

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

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 Answered on

Thu, 7 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Seven days ago, some type of flies bit me repeatedly on my calves and ankles. Although I had many bites, there was no swelling or itchingâ at all until yesterday. Now the itching is quite annoying and the areas are irritated. I am allergic to bees, wasps, and no see-ums, but I react immediately when that happens. I have Addison's disease and am a type 2 diabetic. Can you think of a reason for such a delayed reaction and advise me as to what I should do? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Can occur due to delayed hypersensitivity by mononuclear leukocytes

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. It seems that you have delayed hypersensitivity reactions in response to the insect bites. Such a thing is caused due to inflammatory reactions initiated by mononuclear leukocytes. Treatment can be done with over-the-counter topical corticosteroid preparations, prescription corticosteroid preparations, injectable corticosteroids, or oral corticosteroids.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar