How to kill a subcutaneous mite? - briefly
Use a licensed acaricide—topical ivermectin or oral ivermectin prescribed by a veterinarian—to eradicate the mite, and cleanse the affected skin thoroughly. Complete the full treatment course and monitor for recurrence.
How to kill a subcutaneous mite? - in detail
Eliminating a subcutaneous mite requires a systematic approach that targets the parasite within the skin layers while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. The process can be divided into diagnosis, treatment selection, application, and follow‑up.
Accurate identification is the first step. Dermatological examination, dermatoscopy, or skin biopsy confirms the presence of the mite and determines its species, which influences drug choice. Laboratory analysis of a tissue sample provides definitive evidence and helps rule out secondary infections.
Therapeutic options fall into two categories: topical agents and systemic medications.
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Topical acaricides
- Permethrin 5 % cream applied to the affected area once daily for three consecutive days.
- Ivermectin 1 % lotion applied to the lesion and left for 8–12 hours before washing off; repeat after one week.
- Benzyl benzoate 25 % solution applied for 30 minutes, then rinsed; repeat daily for five days.
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Systemic therapy
- Oral ivermectin 200 µg/kg single dose; a second dose may be given after 7 days if lesions persist.
- Albendazole 400 mg twice daily for three days, reserved for resistant cases.
- Metronidazole 500 mg three times daily for 7 days, used when bacterial superinfection is present.
Adjunctive measures support recovery. Antihistamines reduce pruritus, while corticosteroid creams (e.g., hydrocortisone 1 %) limit inflammation. Maintaining skin hygiene, washing bedding at 60 °C, and avoiding close contact with infested individuals prevent reinfestation.
Monitoring after treatment is essential. Re‑examination at 7 and 14 days confirms eradication; persistent lesions warrant repeat biopsy and possible escalation to combination therapy. Documentation of drug tolerance and adverse reactions ensures safe future management.
In summary, definitive eradication combines precise diagnosis, appropriate acaricidal or antiparasitic medication, supportive skin care, and vigilant follow‑up to confirm success and avoid recurrence.