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Demodicidosis or rosacea: what did we treat?
R Hoekzema1, H J Hulsebosch, J D Bos
1Department of Dermatology, Academisch Medisch Centrum, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
A severe rosacea-like rash was linked to Demodex mites. Treatment with oral and topical metronidazole led to complete recovery, clearing the facial mites.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin condition.
- Demodex folliculorum mites are often found on human skin.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old man presented with a severe rosacea-like eruption.
- Demodex folliculorum mites were identified in facial scales, pustules, and skin biopsies.
- Histological examination revealed mites within pilosebaceous follicles and the dermis, eliciting inflammatory responses.
Findings:
- The patient's condition was consistent with demodicidosis.
- Inflammatory cells, including granulocytes, histiocytes, and giant cells, surrounded the intradermal mites.
- Complete resolution of the eruption and mite infestation was achieved with combined oral and topical metronidazole therapy.
Implications:
- This case suggests metronidazole may be effective against Demodex mites, despite not being classified as a miticide.
- Highlights the importance of considering demodicidosis in severe rosacea-like presentations.
- Suggests a potential therapeutic role for metronidazole in managing Demodex-associated skin conditions.