Demodex spp. within the limbal dermoid – causal pathogen or an irrelevant finding? Case report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Dermatology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Limbal dermoids are congenital choristomas typically presenting as benign tumors on the ocular surface.
• Ocular infestations by Demodex species are common, particularly in older individuals, and can cause various ocular surface diseases.

Observation:

• A 27-year-old male presented with a congenital limbal dermoid tumor exhibiting eyelash growth and ocular discomfort.
• High-frequency ultrasound indicated deep corneoscleral infiltration, necessitating subtotal tumor resection.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination of the resected limbal dermoid revealed the presence of Demodex species within an abnormal sebaceous gland.
• This is the first reported case associating limbal dermoid with Demodex species infestation.

Implications:

• The findings suggest that limbal dermoids may harbor Demodex mites, especially when abnormal sebaceous glands are present within the tumor.
• This association could have implications for the diagnosis and management of limbal dermoids, potentially requiring evaluation for Demodex infestation.