Where should a test for Demodex mites be submitted? - briefly
Submit the specimen to a dermatopathology or parasitology reference laboratory that offers microscopic analysis for Demodex. These facilities provide validated identification and reporting of mite presence.
Where should a test for Demodex mites be submitted? - in detail
Samples intended for identification of Demodex spp. must be processed by laboratories equipped for microscopic or molecular detection of these ectoparasites. The most reliable destinations include:
- Dermatology or ophthalmology clinics that maintain in‑house parasitology sections; they can perform direct skin‑surface scrapings, eyelash examinations, or confocal microscopy.
- Accredited clinical microbiology or parasitology reference laboratories (e.g., CDC‑approved facilities, state public health labs, or commercial entities such as Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp) that offer specialized mite analysis.
- Veterinary diagnostic centers when the specimen originates from an animal host; these labs routinely handle Demodex canis, Demodex cati, etc.
Before dispatch, follow these procedural steps:
- Collect material using sterile curettes, adhesive tape, or eyelash plucking, depending on the site of infestation.
- Preserve specimens in 70 % ethanol or a suitable fixative; avoid formalin, which hinders mite morphology.
- Label each vial with patient identifier, collection date, anatomical location, and clinical indication.
- Complete the laboratory’s requisition form, specifying the desired method (light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, or PCR‑based identification).
- Ship the package via overnight courier, maintaining temperature between 4 °C and 25 °C and complying with biohazard regulations.
Choosing a laboratory with CLIA certification or equivalent accreditation guarantees adherence to quality standards, accurate reporting, and appropriate interpretation of results. If the clinical setting lacks an in‑house service, referral to a recognized reference lab ensures definitive diagnosis and informs subsequent therapeutic decisions.