How to remove a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Disinfect the bite site and observe for redness or fever over the next few days.
How to remove a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
When a tick has penetrated beneath the epidermis, prompt and precise extraction reduces the risk of pathogen transmission and tissue irritation.
First, gather sterile equipment: fine‑point tweezers, a single‑use needle (e.g., 30‑gauge), antiseptic solution, gloves, and a sealed container for the specimen. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the arthropod’s saliva.
- Locate the tick’s head. Visual inspection or magnification helps identify the mouthparts that remain embedded.
- Create a small opening. If the tick’s mouthparts are not visible, gently insert the needle at a shallow angle, just enough to lift the skin over the mouthparts without crushing the tick.
- Grasp the tick’s body. Using tweezers, seize the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, avoiding the abdomen to prevent rupture.
- Apply steady traction. Pull upward with constant force; do not twist or jerk, which can detach mouthparts.
- Inspect the specimen. Confirm that the entire tick, including the capitulum, has been removed. If any part remains, repeat steps 2–4 or seek medical assistance.
- Disinfect the site. Clean the wound with an antiseptic solution and cover with a sterile bandage if needed.
- Preserve the tick. Place it in a sealed container with a damp cotton ball for identification, if required.
- Monitor for symptoms. Observe the bite area for redness, swelling, or fever over the next 2–3 weeks. Seek professional care if systemic signs develop.
If the tick is deeply embedded, the skin may need to be slightly lifted with the needle before tweezers can achieve a secure grip. In cases where removal is difficult, or if the tick is engorged and firmly attached, professional extraction by a healthcare provider is recommended to avoid incomplete removal and subsequent infection.