Where can you submit a test for Demodex mites? - briefly
Dermatology laboratories, university research facilities, and specialized parasitology clinics accept specimens for Demodex mite analysis. Submission details are usually available on the institution’s website or by contacting their diagnostic department.
Where can you submit a test for Demodex mites? - in detail
Submitting a Demodex mite examination requires a qualified laboratory or clinical facility equipped to handle microscopic analysis of skin or hair samples. Options include:
- Dermatology clinics affiliated with hospitals that maintain in‑house parasitology labs. These centers accept patient‑derived specimens and provide diagnostic reports within a standard turnaround time.
- Commercial diagnostic laboratories specializing in dermatological testing. Companies such as LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, and Eurofins offer mail‑in kits; samples are collected with a sterile brush or tape, sealed in a provided container, and shipped to the laboratory’s processing hub.
- Academic or research institutions with a focus on dermatology or entomology. Universities often run reference laboratories that accept external samples for research‑grade analysis, typically requiring a completed requisition form and adherence to biosafety packaging guidelines.
- Veterinary diagnostic services for animal patients. Veterinary pathology labs, for example IDEXX or Animal Health Diagnostic Center, process Demodex examinations in species such as dogs and cats, following similar submission protocols as human labs.
General submission procedure:
- Obtain a collection kit from the chosen facility or order one online. Kits include a sterile sampling tool, preservative medium, and detailed instructions.
- Collect the sample from the affected area using the provided tool, avoiding contamination with external debris.
- Place the specimen in the transport medium, seal the container, and label with patient identifier, collection date, and contact information.
- Complete the requisition form, indicating the purpose of analysis (clinical diagnosis, research, or veterinary assessment).
- Ship the package using a regulated courier service, ensuring compliance with hazardous material regulations for biological specimens.
- Retain the tracking number and follow up with the laboratory to confirm receipt and inquire about expected reporting timelines.
For urgent cases, direct submission to a hospital dermatology department may expedite results, whereas mail‑in services are suitable for routine or non‑emergency testing. All facilities provide a written report detailing mite count, species identification, and recommended treatment options.