NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

The typical appearance of bed bug bites is erythematous papules. These bites often present as small, red, raised areas on the skin, which can be itchy and sometimes inflamed. The reaction to bed bug bites varies among individuals; some may experience minimal swelling while others may have a more pronounced inflammatory response.

Bed bugs usually bite in a line or cluster, which distinguishes them from bites from other insects. The erythematous papules occur as a result of the body's allergic reaction to proteins in the saliva of the bed bug as they feed. This is why the appearance typically includes redness and swelling in the affected area.

Dark reddish-brown spots are not characteristic of bed bug bites; these may represent something like dried blood or feces from the bugs. Swollen boils and blisters with clear fluid are also not typical of bed bug bites; instead, they suggest different types of skin reactions or other insect bites or infections that require further investigation.