Microbiology
Demodex brevis, Demodex folliculorum AKA eyelash mites.
Epidemiologic Risks
Mites that live in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the face of humans. Ick.
Syndromes
The majority of people have them with no symptoms as the mites wander the face-eating oil and skin cells.
Occasionally in the poor host, they will multiply to cause an itchy rash: erythematous follicular papulopustules.
It has been suggested to play a role in a large variety of skin conditions (PubMed).
Treatment
Lindane, permethrin (neither FDA approved).
Notes
Dogs have their own, Demodex canis.
"Female Demodex are somewhat shorter and rounder than males. Both male and female Demodex mites have a genital opening and fertilization is internal. Mating takes place in the follicle opening and eggs are laid inside the hair follicles or sebaceous glands. The six-legged larvae hatch after 3-4 days, and the larvae develop into adults in about 7 days. It has a 14-day life cycle. The total lifespan of a Demodex mite is several weeks. The dead mites decompose inside the hair follicles or sebaceous glands (PubMed)." What a life and it is occurring on you right now.
Last update: 05/05/18