What term describes the inflammation of the skin caused by an arthropod bite?

The term that describes the inflammation of the skin caused by an arthropod bite is dermatitis. This condition typically occurs as a direct response to a bite, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin. Dermatitis can result from various irritants, including insect bites, which trigger an inflammatory reaction in the skin.

In the context of arthropod bites, the body's immune response can result in localized inflammation, making dermatitis the most accurate descriptor of this reaction. This term encompasses a wide range of conditions characterized by skin inflammation, not limited to insect bites but applicable in this scenario. Understanding this helps to recognize the role of physical irritants in provoking skin reactions, which can be important in field sanitation practices.

The other terms, while related to skin conditions, do not specifically define the inflammation resulting from a bite. Pruritus refers specifically to itching, which can occur as a symptom of dermatitis, but does not encompass the broader inflammatory response. An allergic reaction may involve dermatitis but specifically indicates an immune response to an allergen rather than inflammation from the bite itself. Infection generally refers to the invasion of the body by pathogens and is not directly tied to the initial bite unless a secondary infection occurs.