Ladybug hypersensitivity among residents of homes infested with ladybugs in Kentucky.

Background: There have been isolated case reports of hypersensitivity to the ladybug species Harmonia axyridis. Entomologists now report a rapid increase in ladybug numbers, giving rise to increasing complaints of residential infestations.

Objectives: To determine whether ladybug infestation of homes causes hypersensitivity among residents and to estimate the prevalence of self-reported ladybug allergy in this population.

Ladybug hypersensitivity: report of a case and review of literature.

For years, allergists have known that inhalant allergens arise from insects such as flies, beetles, moths, cockroaches, and mites. Now, it is becoming evident that the Asian ladybeetle Harmonia axyridis possibly should be added to this list. Several cases have been reported recently in the literature describing patients suffering from allergic respiratory symptoms including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma related to exposure to ladybugs.