What is the tick under the skin called? - briefly
The tick that has penetrated the skin is called an attached (or embedded) tick; after feeding it is referred to as an engorged tick.
What is the tick under the skin called? - in detail
A tick that has penetrated the epidermis and is feeding is referred to as an attached or embedded tick. The point of entry is called a tick bite lesion, and the feeding apparatus that anchors the parasite is the hypostome. During the blood‑meal the tick becomes engorged, and the visible swelling may be described as an engorged tick.
Key characteristics of an attached tick:
- Mouthparts firmly inserted into the skin, often forming a small central puncture surrounded by a red halo.
- Body size increases as blood is ingested; nymphs may be a few millimeters, adults can exceed one centimeter.
- Presence of a dark, elongated shape that may be partially hidden beneath the skin surface.
The life stage influences appearance:
- Larvae are tiny, often mistaken for a speck of dust.
- Nymphs are larger, resembling a grain of sand.
- Adults are the most conspicuous, especially after engorgement.
Medical relevance:
- Pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Rickettsia spp. can be transmitted through the feeding process.
- The risk of transmission rises after the tick has been attached for 24–48 hours.
- Early removal reduces the likelihood of infection.
Recommended removal procedure:
- Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Apply steady, upward traction without twisting.
- Disinfect the bite site after extraction.
- Preserve the specimen in a sealed container for identification if needed.
Monitoring after removal:
- Observe the site for redness, swelling, or a rash for up to 30 days.
- Seek medical evaluation if flu‑like symptoms, joint pain, or a bullseye rash develop.
Understanding the terminology and proper handling of an embedded tick is essential for preventing disease transmission and ensuring effective treatment.