Demodex Test

Demodex is a microscopic mite that can live naturally in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands, particularly on the face. In some people an increase in its numbers can cause complaints resembling the signs of rosacea — facial redness, acne-like eruptions, itching and sensitivity. Sometimes it presents only as persistent facial dryness.

Demodex examination is a fast and practical diagnostic method used to assess the density of this mite. A sample is taken from the skin surface using a special technique and evaluated under the microscope. The procedure is painless, takes only a few minutes and leaves no mark on the skin. The result is available within 10–15 minutes, and treatment can begin the same day.

In some patients, long-standing facial redness, acne-like eruptions, dryness and itching that fail to improve despite treatment may be caused by an increase in demodex density. Identifying this is of great importance in planning the correct treatment.