How can mites be eliminated from the body? - briefly
Effective removal requires topical acaricidal treatments such as permethrin or ivermectin, together with thorough cleansing of skin, bedding, and clothing. Professional medical evaluation ensures correct diagnosis and appropriate dosage.
How can mites be eliminated from the body? - in detail
Mites that infest humans, such as Sarcoptes scabiei (causing scabies) and Demodex species (associated with facial skin disorders), reside on the skin surface or within hair follicles. Effective eradication requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, and environmental control.
Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, dermatoscopy, or skin scrapings examined under a microscope. Confirmation guides the choice of therapeutic agents.
Pharmacologic interventions include:
- 5 % permethrin cream applied to the entire body from neck down, left on for 8–14 hours, then washed off; repeat after one week if necessary.
- Oral ivermectin, 200 µg/kg in a single dose, repeated after 7 days for scabies; higher or multiple doses may be used for resistant infestations.
- Benzyl benzoate 10–25 % lotion applied nightly for several days, then washed off.
- Sulfur ointment 5–10 % applied nightly for up to 7 days, suitable for infants and pregnant patients.
- Topical tea‑tree oil or metronidazole for Demodex overgrowth, applied twice daily for 4–6 weeks.
Non‑pharmacologic measures complement drug therapy:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal untreated items in plastic bags for at least 72 hours to starve mites.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Maintain short fingernails and avoid scratching to reduce secondary infection.
- Use mild, fragrance‑free cleansers and moisturizers to preserve skin barrier function.
Adjunctive care addresses symptoms and prevents complications:
- Oral antihistamines or topical corticosteroids relieve pruritus.
- Antibacterial or antifungal creams treat secondary skin infections.
- Educate patients on avoiding close contact with untreated individuals until therapy is complete.
Follow‑up examination after 2–4 weeks confirms clearance; persistent lesions may require repeat dosing or alternative agents. Long‑term prevention emphasizes personal hygiene, regular laundering of garments, and prompt treatment of any suspected reinfestation.