What does a face look like with a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick presents as a small, raised, reddish‑to‑flesh‑colored nodule under the skin, often with a tiny central puncture where the mouthparts are anchored. The surrounding tissue may show mild swelling or irritation, but the tick is not visible on the surface.
What does a face look like with a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
A subdermal tick embedded in facial tissue presents as a small, raised nodule that may be mistaken for a cyst or acne lesion. The overlying skin often appears slightly erythematous, with a pink or reddish halo that can vary in width depending on the host’s inflammatory response. The nodule itself feels firm to the touch, sometimes exhibiting a subtle pulsation if the tick’s mouthparts are actively feeding.
Key visual characteristics include:
- A central punctum or tiny opening where the tick’s hypostome protrudes; this may be difficult to see without magnification.
- A translucent or whitish core that reflects the engorged body of the parasite, often giving the lesion a glossy appearance.
- Surrounding edema that can cause mild swelling of the cheek, jawline, or eyelid, depending on the tick’s placement.
- Possible discoloration ranging from light brown to dark gray, matching the tick’s exoskeleton after it has begun to expand with blood.
In some cases, a thin, linear track of blood may be visible extending from the lesion toward a nearby blood vessel, indicating the feeding pathway. The area may also exude a clear or serous fluid if the host’s immune system attempts to isolate the foreign body.
Complications that alter the visual presentation include:
- Secondary bacterial infection – resulting in purulent discharge, increased redness, and a more pronounced swelling.
- Allergic reaction – leading to urticarial plaques surrounding the tick, with a rapid spread of erythema.
- Necrosis – causing a darkened, ulcerated center if the tick’s mouthparts damage deeper tissue layers.
Early identification relies on careful inspection: using a magnifying lens to locate the minute opening, noting the size (typically 2–5 mm in diameter for an unfed tick, expanding up to 10 mm when engorged), and observing any movement or twitching of the parasite’s legs. Prompt removal under sterile conditions reduces the risk of systemic infection and prevents further tissue damage.