What is a pharynx mite? - briefly
A pharyngeal mite is a microscopic arthropod that lives in the throat region of birds and, less commonly, mammals. It consumes epithelial cells and may cause irritation or disease in its host.
What is a pharynx mite? - in detail
A pharyngeal mite belongs to the order Acari, family Ceratophyllidae, and is an obligate ectoparasite of the upper respiratory tract of mammals. The most frequently encountered species in humans is Sarcoptes scabiei var. pharyngeus, while in livestock Ceratophyllus spp. are common.
The adult organism measures 0.2–0.5 mm, possesses a dorsoventrally flattened body, four pairs of legs, and a gnathosoma adapted for attaching to mucosal surfaces. The cuticle is heavily sclerotized, providing resistance to mechanical removal. Sensory setae on the anterior region aid in locating host tissue.
Reproduction occurs entirely on the host. Females lay 2–5 eggs per day in the pharyngeal epithelium; eggs hatch within 3–5 days, producing larval stages that undergo three molts before reaching maturity. The complete cycle spans 10–14 days, allowing rapid population expansion during favorable conditions.
Clinical manifestations include irritation, chronic cough, and nasal discharge. In severe infestations, secondary bacterial infection may develop, leading to sinusitis or bronchitis. Veterinary cases often present with weight loss, decreased feed intake, and reduced growth rates.
Diagnosis relies on direct visualization of mites in nasal swabs or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, supplemented by microscopic identification of characteristic morphological features. Molecular assays targeting mitochondrial 16S rRNA provide species-level confirmation.
Therapeutic options consist of topical acaricides (e.g., ivermectin 0.2 % spray) applied to the nasopharyngeal mucosa, and systemic administration of macrocyclic lactones for deeper tissue penetration. Environmental control involves thorough cleaning of animal housing and replacement of bedding to eliminate off‑host stages.