Demodex Skin Mite Test
Purpose of the test:
- Demodex skin test is a microscopic examination of skin for the presence of the Demodex mite.
- Used for diagnosing chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as acne, rosacea, and unexplained dermatitis.
- Particularly recommended for redness, itching, flaking, and acne not responding to standard therapy.
Biomaterial: Skin scraping from the face or affected area
- Avoid cosmetic and medicinal ointments for 1-2 days before the test.
- Avoid aggressive skin cleansing on the day of the test.
Medications: if possible, avoid anti-inflammatory and antiseptic drugs 24-48 hours before the test.
What the test assesses:
- Presence and quantity of Demodex mites on the skin.
- Degree of skin involvement and inflammatory process activity.
- Negative result: mites not detected or count within normal range.
- Positive result: Demodex mites detected, count above normal — confirms demodicosis.
- Degree of involvement: mite count and affected zone help assess severity and inflammatory process activity.
