SEABATHER'S ERUPTION

Some authors feel that this is a variant of swimmer's itch and is also caused by schistosome larvae. There is some evidence supporting this claim, but several differences between the two are often noted. Seabather's eruption usually occurs in salt water, primarily along the coast of Florida and the Gulf states. A rash appears on areas that are covered by the bathing suit, while swimmer's itch affects exposed skin. Seabather's eruption begins a few hours after bathing with itchy red bumps or wheals that closely resemble insect bites. Small blisters do not appear on the bumps, as are sometimes seen in swimmer's itch. There may be chills and a low-grade fever for a day or so.

SEABATHER'S ERUPTION - Treatment and Prevention
Treatment is palliative (calamine, antihistamines, etc.) and symptomatic since protective creams are of unproven value. Waters known to cause this problem should be avoided.