What do subcutaneous ticks look like in humans? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick appears as a small, firm, often whitish or gray nodule beneath the skin, sometimes with a visible central punctum where the mouthparts are embedded. The surrounding area may show mild erythema but typically lacks the typical engorged, dark‑red appearance of a surface‑attached tick.
What do subcutaneous ticks look like in humans? - in detail
Subcutaneous ticks present as small, often rounded nodules situated just under the epidermis. The overlying skin may appear normal in color or display a faint erythema that does not spread far from the lesion. When examined closely, the nodule feels firm to the touch, sometimes slightly tender, and may be movable within the surrounding tissue.
The visible portion of the arthropod is typically a dark brown or black speck, representing the ventral side of the tick’s body. In many cases the dorsal shield (scutum) is not exposed, so the external appearance resembles a tiny, pigmented lump rather than a classic tick shape. The size varies with the developmental stage: larvae are about 0.5 mm, nymphs 1–2 mm, and adult females up to 5 mm in diameter. Larger specimens can cause a more noticeable swelling.
Key characteristics observed during clinical inspection:
- Surface texture: smooth, occasionally with a slight central depression where the tick’s mouthparts attach.
- Coloration: uniform dark hue; occasional reddish tint if inflammation is present.
- Mobility: the organism remains anchored; surrounding tissue may shift but the nodule itself stays fixed.
- Surrounding reaction: mild edema, occasional localized itching or burning sensation; systemic symptoms are rare unless infection follows.
Ultrasound imaging frequently reveals a hypoechoic structure with a central echogenic focus, confirming the presence of a live arthropod beneath the skin. Removal typically involves a small incision or careful extraction with fine forceps, after which the site may exhibit a small residual scar.
Overall, subcutaneous ticks manifest as discreet, pigmented nodules with limited surface changes, whose size and firmness correspond to the tick’s developmental stage. Accurate identification relies on visual inspection of the nodule’s color and texture, supplemented by imaging when necessary.