What does skin infected by a subcutaneous tick look like? - briefly
An embedded tick usually creates a tiny, red‑colored papule or raised bump, often encircled by a halo of erythema and sometimes showing a central punctum where the mouthparts are lodged. The area may be mildly itchy or tender and can develop a crusted or ulcerated surface if the local inflammation worsens.
What does skin infected by a subcutaneous tick look like? - in detail
The skin surrounding a tick that has penetrated beneath the surface typically presents as a localized, raised, erythematous area. The redness may be uniform or display a halo of lighter coloration around a darker core. A small, often pin‑point opening—known as the punctum—marks the point where the mouthparts remain embedded; this can appear as a tiny black or brown dot within the inflamed zone.
In many cases the surrounding tissue swells, giving the lesion a firm, palpable consistency. The edema may extend a few millimeters beyond the erythema, creating a subtle, diffuse induration. If the tick remains attached for several days, the area can become increasingly tender and may develop a warm sensation compared to adjacent skin.
Secondary changes may arise depending on the duration of attachment and the presence of pathogens:
- Exudate or serous fluid: a clear or slightly yellowish ooze may collect at the punctum, especially if the host’s immune response is active.
- Crusting or scabbing: as the lesion matures, a thin, dry crust can form over the punctum, occasionally obscuring the tick’s mouthparts.
- Necrotic center: prolonged feeding can cause localized tissue death, producing a darkened, sometimes ulcerated core surrounded by still‑red tissue.
- Rash or papular eruption: disseminated erythematous papules may appear nearby or on distant body sites if an infectious agent, such as Borrelia or Rickettsia, has been transmitted.
The lesion’s size generally ranges from 0.5 cm to 2 cm in diameter. The border is often well defined, though in some individuals the erythema merges gradually with surrounding normal skin. Pain levels vary: early stages are usually painless, while later inflammation may cause noticeable discomfort upon pressure or movement.
When the tick is finally removed, the punctum may close rapidly, leaving a small, shallow pit that heals within days to weeks. Persistent redness, expanding swelling, or the development of a fever should prompt medical evaluation, as they can indicate secondary infection or systemic disease.