Follicular mites (Demodex folliculorum) can be recovered using adhesive tape. This is a noninvasive test that can give semiquantitative information. However, certain steps must be taken to ensure optimum results.
Basic steps:
(1) Apply a length of clear, wide packing tape over a large area of skin, typically the forehead.
(2) Leave the tape in place for a sufficient period. This allows the mites to migrate from affected follicles.
(3) Remove the tape and wrap it around a glass slide.
(4) Examine the slide under a microscope.
One advantage of this method is that the mites may still be alive for some time.
Relative contraindication;
(1) fragile skin
(2) skin that is sunburned or thermally burned
(3) presence of bullae or blisters
(4) recent application of a skin exfoliant
Issue
Management
duration tape left in place
minimum period 2 hours, can be left overnight
ensuring good tape adherence
clean skin with alcohol to remove oil; wear a head covering
excessive sweating
apply while the patient is awake; use a head covering to keep in place
deterioration of mites over time
refrigerate for short periods; requires fixation for longer periods
Other methods described for detection of the follicular mite include:
(1) skin biopsy
(2) skin scrapings
(3) glue adhesive
(4) suction
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