How to combat a kidney mite? - briefly
Treat the infestation with a prescribed antiparasitic medication such as ivermectin or albendazole, following the dosage and duration recommended by a healthcare professional. Complement drug therapy with strict personal hygiene, regular washing of bedding and clothing, and avoidance of contaminated water sources.
How to combat a kidney mite? - in detail
Kidney mites are parasitic arthropods that colonize the renal tissue, causing inflammation, hematuria and impaired filtration. Infection typically follows ingestion of contaminated water or food, or direct contact with infected animals. The organism penetrates the tubular epithelium, multiplies, and elicits an immune response that damages glomeruli.
Accurate diagnosis requires microscopic examination of urine sediment for motile mites, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of mite DNA, and imaging studies (ultrasound or CT) to assess structural changes. Blood tests should include complete blood count, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and inflammatory markers.
Therapeutic regimen centers on antiparasitic agents proven effective against arthropod infestations:
- Ivermectin: 200 µg/kg orally once daily for three consecutive days; repeat course after two weeks if PCR remains positive.
- Albendazole: 400 mg twice daily for seven days; consider higher dose (800 mg) in severe cases.
- Nitazoxanide: 500 mg twice daily for five days as adjunct in resistant infections.
Concurrent measures support renal recovery:
- Intravenous isotonic fluids to maintain perfusion.
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) only if fluid overload is present.
- Analgesics (acetaminophen) for pain; avoid nephrotoxic NSAIDs.
- Monitor serum electrolytes, creatinine and urine output daily for the first week, then weekly for one month.
Preventive actions reduce exposure risk:
- Treat drinking water with filtration or chlorine before consumption.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly; peel if sourced from high‑risk areas.
- Use protective gloves when handling livestock or soil known to harbor mites.
- Implement regular deworming programs for domestic animals in endemic regions.
- Conduct routine health screenings for at‑risk populations, especially those with compromised immunity.
Long‑term follow‑up includes repeat urine microscopy and PCR at one‑month and three‑month intervals to confirm eradication. Persistent abnormalities warrant referral to a nephrologist for further evaluation.