Subcutaneous mite on the face: how to fight it? - briefly
Effective treatment combines topical acaricides (e.g., 5 % permethrin cream) with a single dose of oral ivermectin, along with meticulous skin cleansing to eliminate residual organisms. Consultation with a dermatologist ensures appropriate prescription strength and monitoring to prevent recurrence.
Subcutaneous mite on the face: how to fight it? - in detail
Facial subcutaneous mite infestation presents as painful, firm nodules beneath the skin, often accompanied by redness and occasional itching. The parasites reside in the dermal layer, feeding on tissue fluids and causing localized inflammation. Early identification relies on clinical examination and, when necessary, dermoscopic or histopathological confirmation to differentiate from cysts, granulomas, or bacterial abscesses.
Effective management follows a stepwise protocol:
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Pharmacological therapy
- Topical acaricides (e.g., permethrin 5 % cream) applied twice daily for 5–7 days.
- Oral ivermectin, 200 µg/kg, administered as a single dose; a second dose after 7 days improves eradication rates.
- Adjunctive anti‑inflammatory agents such as short‑course oral prednisolone (0.5 mg/kg) to reduce swelling.
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Procedural interventions
Fine‑needle aspiration of nodules provides material for microscopic analysis and can relieve pressure.
Excisional surgery under local anesthesia is indicated for persistent lesions unresponsive to medication. -
Supportive care
Cold compresses reduce acute discomfort.
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., 0.1 % betamethasone) applied once daily for 3–5 days mitigate inflammation without compromising acaricidal action.
Prevention focuses on hygiene and environmental control:
- Daily facial cleansing with mild, non‑comedogenic agents.
- Regular laundering of pillowcases, towels, and facial masks at temperatures ≥ 60 °C.
- Avoidance of contaminated soil or animal fur in endemic regions; use of protective clothing when exposure is unavoidable.
- Periodic skin inspection for early signs, particularly after travel to tropical or subtropical areas.
Follow‑up assessment should occur two weeks post‑treatment, evaluating lesion resolution and confirming the absence of viable mites through repeat dermoscopy or biopsy if doubt persists. Recurrence warrants a repeat ivermectin course combined with intensified topical therapy.
Overall, a combination of systemic acaricide, targeted local treatment, and strict hygiene measures yields the highest success rate in eliminating facial subcutaneous mite infestations.