What is the subcutaneous tick called? - briefly
The tick that stays beneath the skin is termed an embedded (or buried) tick. It refers to a tick that remains lodged in the dermis after attachment.
What is the subcutaneous tick called? - in detail
A tick that has penetrated beneath the epidermis is commonly referred to as a buried or subdermal tick. Veterinary and medical literature also uses the terms “subcutaneous tick” and “intracutaneous tick” to describe this condition.
The organism initially attaches to the skin surface, inserts its hypostome, and then migrates deeper as feeding progresses. Salivary secretions containing anticoagulants and anesthetics facilitate prolonged attachment, allowing the tick to become encapsulated by host tissue. The resulting nodule may appear as a firm, painless lump that can persist for weeks after the tick detaches.
Typical clinical observations include:
- Localized, raised swelling often mistaken for a cyst or lipoma
- Absence of visible tick legs or mouthparts on the skin surface
- Possible erythema or mild inflammation surrounding the nodule
- Rare systemic symptoms such as fever if pathogen transmission occurs
Diagnosis relies on physical examination and, when necessary, imaging techniques such as high‑frequency ultrasound to locate the embedded arthropod. Fine‑needle aspiration may retrieve fragments for microscopic confirmation.
Removal protocol:
- Apply a topical anesthetic to the area.
- Use sterile fine‑point forceps to grasp the visible portion of the tick, if any.
- If the tick is fully enclosed, make a small incision over the nodule under aseptic conditions.
- Extract the tick with forceps, ensuring the mouthparts remain intact.
- Irrigate the wound with antiseptic solution and apply a sterile dressing.
- Monitor for signs of infection or delayed healing; administer antibiotics if bacterial involvement is suspected.
Preventive measures focus on regular skin checks after outdoor exposure, prompt removal of attached ticks, and use of repellents containing permethrin or DEET. Early identification of a buried tick reduces the risk of secondary infection and pathogen transmission.