Sea Fleas or Leptostracans

I recently went on vacation to Cancun.  While I was there I came into contact with a sea flea or medical term Leptostracans.  I now have a rash on my body and it burns, itches and is inflamed.  Should I see a physician or what should I do?  Is there an over the counter medication that can help me?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Wendy:

My medical texts do not reference Leptostracans.  I assume you are talking about what are commonly called "sea lice," which are actually larvae of small jellyfish.  These congregate under bathing suits and cause an itchy but slef-limited eruption.  Just apply calamine or Sarna lotions as needed for itch, and it will go away on its own.

The tarvel brochures don't tell you about this . . .


Best.

Dr. R