Lepidopterism - oak processionary caterpillar dermatitis: appearance after indirect out-of-season contact.

Lepidopterism by contact with oak processionary caterpillars is becoming more frequent in Germany and is often described in the lay press. The hairs of the adolescent caterpillars cause localized and generalized mechanic-irritative, toxic and allergic skin reactions. We describe the oak processionary caterpillar dermatitis in a married couple caused by indirect contact via their dog's saliva, after the dog had oral contact with an abandoned caterpillar nest in winter and became ill. Accordingly, the recommendation for prophylaxis by avoiding contact with oak processionary caterpillars has to be extended beyond the direct contact with caterpillars in summer.