What is the subcutaneous mite on the face called? - briefly
The facial skin mite is a member of the Demodex genus, most frequently identified as Demodex folliculorum. A second species, Demodex brevis, occupies deeper sebaceous glands beneath the surface.
What is the subcutaneous mite on the face called? - in detail
The microscopic arthropods that inhabit the dermal layer of the face are members of the genus Demodex. Two species predominate on human skin: Demodex folliculorum, which occupies hair follicles, and Demodex brevis, which resides primarily in sebaceous and meibomian glands. Both are elongated, cigar‑shaped mites measuring 0.2–0.4 mm in length, possessing four pairs of legs and a transparent cuticle that renders them nearly invisible without magnification.
Life cycle
- Egg laid within the follicle or gland duct.
- Six larval stages (larva, three nymphal instars) over 7–14 days.
- Adult stage reaches reproductive maturity after approximately three weeks.
- Adult lifespan ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, during which females lay 10–40 eggs.
Prevalence
- Colonization occurs in over 80 % of adults; density increases with age.
- Higher counts correlate with oily skin, immunosuppression, and certain dermatologic conditions.
Clinical significance
- Overpopulation may provoke inflammatory reactions, presenting as rosacea‑like erythema, papulopustular eruptions, itching, or ocular irritation (blepharitis, dry eye).
- Diagnosis relies on standardized skin surface biopsy or epilated follicle examination, quantifying mites per cm²; >5 mites/cm² is generally considered pathological.
- Treatment options include topical acaricides (e.g., 1 % ivermectin cream, metronidazole gel), oral ivermectin, and adjunctive measures such as tea‑tree oil preparations and strict facial hygiene to reduce sebum accumulation.
Understanding the taxonomy, biology, and pathogenic potential of Demodex species enables accurate identification and effective management of mite‑related facial dermatoses.