Discussion
The case above described cantharidin toxicity resulting from ingestion of blister
beetles. The ingested beetles in this case were positively identi®ed as M. dicincta,
which belong to the Mylabris genus of beetles. These beetles emit cantharidin
laden body secretions which cause painful blisters and lesions on human skin
when touched (Hundt et al., 1990; Eisner, 1974). Beetles of this species are usually
black and yellow in colour with some being black and red (e.g. M. dicincta ), and
others being all black. The bright colours that may warn would be predators, can
unfortunately be attractive to the inquisitive child.