Assassin Caterpiller

Assassin Caterpillar 

Lonomia obliqua, or giant silkworm moth,

A species of moths from South America.
Known as the “assassin caterpillar,” larvae are responsible for at least 500 deaths, and probably many more.

These caterpillars are about 4.5 to 5.5 centimeters (about 2 in) long, with background colors ranging from green to brown.

Well camouflaged, they have rows of tubercles( small rounded lumps)crowned with whorls(  pattern of spirals)of easily detachable spines of different sizes.

Its urticating bristles(spear like) penetrate the skin and deliver a dose of toxin which leads to headache, fever, vomiting and malaise(feeling sick) before a severe bleeding disorder begins. Leading to ecchymosis(looks like a bruise), hematuria,(blood in pee) pulmonary and intracranial hemorrhages ( blood flooding the brain), and acute renal failure.(decreased blood supply to the kidneys)
A case study of a fatal encounter. A 70 year-old, previously healthy woman developed a sudden coma. Four days before, She started to have blood in her pee. Physical examination revealed several skin hemorrhages. She had a C.T. scan which revealed multiple intracerebral hemorrhages(blood bursting in the brain). She died seven days after being envenomed.

Should you get stung by a caterpillar. Place Scotch tape over the affected area and strip off repeatedly to remove spines. Apply ice packs to reduce the stinging sensation, and follow with a paste of baking soda and water. If the victim has a history of hay fever, asthma or allergy, or if allergic reactions develop, contact a physician immediately.