What is the subcutaneous tick called in animals? - briefly
In veterinary terminology, a tick that embeds beneath the skin is called a subcutaneous (or hypodermic) tick.
What is the subcutaneous tick called in animals? - in detail
The organism that embeds beneath the dermis and forms a palpable nodule is commonly referred to as a subcutaneous tick cyst, also known as a tick granuloma. This lesion results when a feeding tick detaches from the epidermis but remains viable within the subcutaneous tissue, creating a fibrous capsule around its body.
Typical hosts include dogs, cats, and livestock such as cattle and horses. The most frequently implicated species are Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Larval and nymphal stages are most prone to this migration because their small size facilitates deeper penetration.
Clinical presentation consists of a single, firm, non‑painful swelling, often 1–3 cm in diameter. The overlying skin may be slightly erythematous, but systemic signs are uncommon. Occasionally, the cyst ruptures, releasing the tick and causing secondary inflammation.
Diagnosis relies on:
- Physical examination of the nodule.
- Ultrasonography to identify the tick’s silhouette within the capsule.
- Fine‑needle aspiration or incision to retrieve the specimen for morphological identification.
Management options include:
- Surgical excision of the cyst with complete removal of the tick.
- Minimal‑incision drainage followed by topical antiseptics if the tick is expelled spontaneously.
- Administration of systemic acaricides (e.g., ivermectin) to prevent additional infestations.
Preventive measures focus on regular ectoparasite control using topical or oral acaricides, routine grooming to detect attached ticks early, and environmental management to reduce tick habitats.
Prognosis after complete removal is excellent; recurrence is rare when effective ectoparasite prophylaxis is maintained.