Demodex folliculorum

Demodex folliculorum is a type of microscopic mite that lives on human skin, particularly in hair follicles and sebaceous glands. These mites are naturally present in most people, but under certain conditions, they can cause irritation and skin conditions such as rosacea, blepharitis, or other types of inflammation.

When is the test for Demodex folliculorum recommended?
The test is recommended when symptoms such as itching, redness, inflammation, or scaling appear on the skin, especially on the face or eyelids. It is also indicated in cases of chronic skin conditions that do not respond to standard treatments.

Preparation for the test:
To obtain accurate results, it is recommended to:

• Avoid applying cosmetics or creams to the face 24 hours before the test, as this may affect sample collection.
• Do not wash the affected area on the morning of the test and avoid applying anything to the face to preserve the integrity of the samples.

How is the test performed?
The test involves collecting material by gently scraping the affected skin area, along with scales, eyelashes, and a few hairs from the eyebrow region. The procedure is harmless and painless.
The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify Demodex mites.

Time to receive results:
The results are available within 30 minutes of sample collection.