Human ectoparasitoses caused by flat wasps of the genera Sclerodermus and Cephalonomia (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae)

Abstract

Flat wasps of the genera Sclerodermus and Cephalonomia (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) are ectoparasitoids of larvae from various insect -orders. They are important biological control agents against stored-product insect pests and xylophagous insects. In humans, these genera encompass species that are responsible for the emergence of sting lesions worldwide. Despite the fact that treatment of these sting lesions is important for human health, there are very few reports in the literature that provide a comprehensive overview of this topic. This review, based on data from the literature and the authors' personal experience, describes skin lesions induced by insect species belonging to the Sclerodermus and Cephalonomia genera, focusing on the possible involved pathomechanism, diagnosis, therapeutic management and environmental disinfestation.