Rodent mite dermatitis
| Rodent mite dermatitis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Rat mite dermatitis |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
| Frequency | Lua error in Module:PrevalenceData at line 5: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). |
Rodent mite dermatitis (also known as rat mite dermatitis) is an often unrecognized ectoparasitosis occurring after human contact with haematophagous mesostigmatid mites that infest rodents, such as house mice,[1] rats[2] and hamsters.[3] The condition is associated with the tropical rat mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti), spiny rat mite (Laelaps echidnina) and house mouse mite (Liponyssoides sanguineus)[4] which opportunistically feed on humans. Rodent mites are capable of surviving for long periods without feeding and travelling long distances when seeking hosts.[4] Cases have been reported in homes, libraries,[5] hospitals[6] and care homes.[7] A similar condition, known as gamasoidosis, is caused by avian mites.[8]
Symptoms and signs
[edit | edit source]Rodent mite bites leave multiple groups or individual small itchy papules (around 1–2 mm in diameter)[7] on the skin (papular urticaria).[9][10] These are found mostly "on the upper extremities, neck, upper trunk and face".[7]
Diagnosis
[edit | edit source]Diagnosis requires species identification of the parasite, which will be likely to be found in the environment of its host rather than on the host's skin.[10] Rodent mites are very small, for O. bacoti "female mites reach a size between 0.75 and 1.40 mm, males are a little smaller".[7]
Treatment
[edit | edit source]The original rodent host of the mites must be located and eradicated,[11] and their nests removed.[12] Steps should also be taken to prevent future infestations, such as by blocking the rodents means of entry into the building. The patient's environment should then be treated,[10] using both non-residual and residual insecticides, mites crawling in the open can be removed by vacuuming or with a cloth moistened with alcohol.[12]
Bites can be treated with antihistamines and corticosteroids, to relieve the associated itching and allergic reactions.[7]
Epidemiology
[edit | edit source]L. sanguineus has been implicated in the spread of Rickettsialpox.[13]
See also
[edit | edit source]References
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