How does a tick get under the skin? - briefly
A tick inserts its mouthparts into the epidermis, secretes anticoagulant‑rich saliva, and anchors itself while feeding, remaining partially embedded. The feeding cavity expands as the parasite enlarges, keeping the organism concealed beneath the skin surface.
How does a tick get under the skin? - in detail
Ticks attach by inserting their specialized mouthparts, called chelicerae and hypostome, into the host’s epidermis. The chelicerae slice the skin surface, creating a small incision. The hypostome, a barbed structure, then penetrates deeper layers, anchoring the parasite.
Saliva released during insertion contains anticoagulants, anti‑inflammatory agents and enzymes that suppress the host’s immune response. These compounds prevent clot formation and reduce pain, allowing the tick to remain undetected while the hypostome advances into the dermis.
A proteinaceous cement is secreted from the tick’s salivary glands. This adhesive hardens around the hypostome, forming a secure attachment that resists mechanical removal. The cement also seals the wound, limiting exposure of host tissue to external irritants.
The feeding process proceeds as follows:
- Penetration – chelicerae cut, hypostome embeds.
- Salivation – anticoagulant and immunomodulatory factors introduced.
- Cementation – protein glue solidifies around the mouthparts.
- Engorgement – blood drawn through a canal in the hypostome into the tick’s midgut.
Throughout this period, the tick’s sensory organs monitor host temperature and movement, adjusting attachment as needed. Detachment typically occurs only after the tick completes its blood meal, at which point the cement dissolves and the mouthparts withdraw from the skin.