How to get rid of a tick in demodicosis? - briefly
Apply a licensed acaricide—topical ivermectin, permethrin, or a lime‑sulfur dip—and follow the recommended repeat schedule, adding systemic medication (oral ivermectin or milbemycin) when necessary. Maintain rigorous grooming, regular medicated washes, and thorough environmental disinfection to prevent recurrence.
How to get rid of a tick in demodicosis? - in detail
Effective elimination of the ectoparasite responsible for demodicosis requires a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, targeted pharmacotherapy, and strict hygiene measures.
The first step is confirmation of the infestation. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings or standardized skin surface biopsy provides quantitative data on mite density. A count exceeding the normal threshold (typically >5 mites per cm²) justifies therapeutic intervention.
Pharmacological options fall into two categories:
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Topical agents
- Ivermectin 1 % cream applied once daily for 2–4 weeks, then reduced to maintenance frequency.
- Metronidazole gel 0.75 % applied twice daily for 6–8 weeks; reduces inflammation and mite load.
- Benzoyl peroxide 5 % lotion used once daily to disrupt mite cuticle and decrease bacterial colonization.
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Systemic treatments
- Oral ivermectin 200 µg/kg as a single dose, repeated after 7 days, then monthly for three cycles.
- Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 4–6 weeks; anti‑inflammatory properties aid lesion resolution.
- Azithromycin 500 mg daily for 3 days each week over 8 weeks as an alternative in tetracycline‑intolerant patients.
Mechanical removal of individual parasites is rarely practical due to their microscopic size, but careful cleansing of affected areas with sterile cotton swabs soaked in 0.9 % saline can reduce surface numbers before medication begins.
Hygiene and environmental control are essential adjuncts:
- Wash facial skin with a non‑irritating cleanser twice daily; avoid oil‑based products that may nourish the mites.
- Launder pillowcases, towels, and bedding at ≥60 °C weekly; use hypoallergenic detergents.
- Disinfect grooming tools with 70 % isopropyl alcohol after each use.
- Limit exposure to heat and humidity; maintain ambient temperature between 20–22 °C and relative humidity below 50 %.
Follow‑up examinations should be scheduled at 2‑week intervals during the acute phase, with repeat skin surface biopsies to verify a decline in mite density. Successful therapy is indicated by a reduction to ≤1 mite per cm² and resolution of erythema, papules, or pustules.
If clinical response is inadequate after 8 weeks, consider combination therapy (e.g., topical ivermectin plus oral doxycycline) or referral to a dermatologist for alternative modalities such as laser phototherapy or cryotherapy. Continuous monitoring prevents relapse and ensures long‑term remission.