How can a subcutaneous tick in cats be identified? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick presents as a firm, mobile nodule beneath the skin, often accompanied by localized swelling. Palpation, followed by ultrasonography or fine‑needle aspiration, verifies its identity.
How can a subcutaneous tick in cats be identified? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick in a cat often presents as a localized swelling that feels firm and may be slightly raised above the skin surface. The area can be warm, tender to pressure, and sometimes emits a faint odor. In many cases the overlying fur appears normal, making visual detection difficult without close inspection.
Physical examination should begin with a thorough palpation of the entire body, focusing on common attachment sites such as the head, neck, ears, and between the shoulder blades. A tick embedded beneath the skin may be felt as a discrete, oval mass that moves slightly when the surrounding tissue is compressed. Gentle stretching of the skin can reveal a small, raised nodule with a central depression where the mouthparts are anchored.
If palpation does not provide a definitive diagnosis, diagnostic imaging can clarify the situation. High‑frequency ultrasonography identifies a hypoechoic structure with a central echogenic focus corresponding to the tick’s body. Ultrasound also allows assessment of surrounding inflammation and helps guide fine‑needle aspiration if needed. In more ambiguous cases, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can locate a tick lodged deeper in the subcutaneous tissue, especially when it is near critical structures.
Dermoscopic examination of the skin surface may expose a tiny puncture wound or a faint erythematous halo surrounding the hidden parasite. When the puncture is visible, a small amount of serous fluid may be expressed, confirming the presence of a feeding tick.
Laboratory analysis of aspirated material can support the diagnosis. Cytology typically shows a mixture of host inflammatory cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages) and fragments of tick cuticle or gut contents. PCR testing of the sample can detect tick‑borne pathogens such as Bartonella, Rickettsia, or Anaplasma, which may influence treatment decisions.
Removal of a subcutaneous tick requires careful technique to avoid rupturing the parasite and releasing its contents. After confirming the location with imaging, a small incision is made directly over the nodule. The tick is extracted using fine forceps, ensuring the mouthparts are removed intact. The incision is then flushed with antiseptic solution and closed with a single suture if necessary. Post‑extraction monitoring includes observation for secondary infection and administration of appropriate antiparasitic medication.
In summary, identification relies on a combination of tactile assessment, targeted imaging, dermoscopic clues, and, when indicated, cytological or molecular testing. Accurate detection enables prompt removal and reduces the risk of tick‑borne disease transmission.