Microscopy for Demodex folliculorum

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Microscopic examination for Demodex folliculorum allows the identification of mites of the genus Demodex in biological material collected from the skin, eyelashes, or external auditory canal.

Demodex folliculorum is a microscopic mite that can normally inhabit hair follicles, particularly in the facial area, eyelashes, and external auditory canal. Under certain conditions, an excessive increase in their number may be associated with dermatological or ocular manifestations.

The test result should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical manifestations and, on its own, does not establish a diagnosis of demodicosis.

Indications

• persistent or recurrent facial redness;
• itching, burning, or skin discomfort;
• skin scaling and the appearance of rashes, papules, or pustules, especially on the face;
• a “gritty” or “sandy” sensation in the eyes, eye itching, or irritation;
• redness and inflammation of the eyelid margins;
• crusting or scaling at the base of the eyelashes;
• unexplained eyelash loss or fragility;
• signs of irritation or discomfort in the external auditory canal;
• clinical suspicion of demodicosis.

Procedure

The sample is collected from the affected area, depending on the clinical manifestations.

For skin examination, skin scales or follicular contents may be collected. For eyelash examination, eyelashes with the hair follicle are collected. If manifestations involve the external auditory canal, the sample is collected from the respective area.

The collected material is examined under a microscope to identify Demodex forms. Microscopic examination may include analysis of a skin scraping or collected eyelashes.

Limitations

• The result may be affected by the site, quantity, and quality of the collected material.
• A negative result does not always exclude the presence of Demodex, particularly when the number of mites is low or the sample was not collected from the affected area.
• Demodex may also be present in people without clinical manifestations; therefore, the detection of the mite alone does not automatically indicate demodicosis.
• The result should be interpreted in the context of the symptoms and clinical examination.

Contraindications

The examination has no absolute contraindications. Sample collection may be postponed in cases of extensive lesions, bleeding, or severe inflammation at the collection site, as recommended by medical staff.

Advantages

• direct microscopic method for identifying Demodex;
• simple and rapid procedure;
• allows examination of material collected directly from the affected area;
• can be used to investigate skin, ocular, and external auditory canal manifestations;
• helps assess a possible association between clinical manifestations and excessive Demodex presence.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10363850/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demodex_folliculorum
https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2781283
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1367048419301833

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or worsening of a condition, it is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can accurately diagnose and determine the appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.