What causes ear mites in humans? - briefly
Ear mites in humans arise from infestation by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, typically transmitted through direct contact with infested animals or people. Risk is heightened by crowded environments and insufficient personal hygiene.
What causes ear mites in humans? - in detail
Ear mite infestations in people arise when microscopic parasites that normally live on the skin of dogs, cats, and other mammals are transferred to the human ear canal. The most common species involved is Otodectes cynotis, which can survive temporarily on human tissue despite being poorly adapted to it.
Direct contact with an infested animal provides the primary pathway for transmission. Pet owners who handle their dogs or cats without protective gloves, or who allow animals to rest their heads on human shoulders, expose themselves to mite migration. Secondary pathways include contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, grooming brushes, or clothing that have housed the parasites.
Several conditions increase susceptibility:
- Close, prolonged proximity to infected pets.
- Compromised immune function, which reduces the body’s ability to reject foreign organisms.
- Inadequate personal or environmental hygiene, allowing mites to persist on surfaces.
- Overcrowded living spaces where pets and humans share limited areas.
- Visits to veterinary clinics or shelters where mite prevalence is higher.
Environmental factors also play a role. Warm, humid climates extend mite viability outside a host, facilitating accidental transfer. Indoor heating during colder months can create microenvironments conducive to mite survival on surfaces.
When mites enter the ear, they cause irritation, inflammation, and excessive wax production. Persistent scratching may lead to secondary bacterial infections, further complicating the clinical picture.