COLLEMBOLIASIS and MITES – Two Amazing Reports

First, I would like to thank Sidney for providing a link to this information. Sidney, you’ve been a big help with my research, thank you. I’m merely going to copy the contents of two articles in here in case they are lost to time. This way we will always have a copy. The 2nd article is an incredibly large report that was posted in six segments in the comments section of the end of the first report, I find it very interesting, so be sure to scroll through this entire post. There is a reason these soil based pests are in us folks, I’m getting to that in another post.

This information was taken from:

COLLEMBOLIASIS: YET ANOTHER EMERGING ZOONOSIS? A PRELIMINARY REPORT

http://members4.boardhost.com/Kritters/msg/2052.html

Frederic L. Frye, DVM, MSc, CBiol, FIBiol,
Davis, California

It has been known for over a century that springtail insects (Apterygota) can live freely or in association with a variety of biological systems that include terrestrial, freshwater- and shoreline-marine aquatic. Once believed to be entirely saprophagous and/or phytophagous facultative (or obligate) detritovores, springtails have been found in the following circumstances: feeding upon nesting ants, flies, and conspecific dead springtails (Dasgupta and Dasgupta, 1995); infesting bumblebees (Husband and Brown, 1976); infesting insect eggs (Tosi, 1977; Tosi and Sartini, 1983; Waldorf 1971); parasitizing cabbage moth larvae (Griffiths, 1985); infesting hermit crabs (Van Goetham and Hanssens, 1982); living in the gut of an avian ectoparasitic insect, Myrsidea sp., which is a Mallophagan louse (Oniki and Butler, 1990); parasitizing salamanders and toads (Dasgupta and Dasgupta, 1990); associated with nesting mammals (Dasgupta and Dasgupta, 1995; Hrivnak, 1981; 1983; Nosek and Vysotskaya, 1976; Roy and Dasgupta, 1971; Szabo, 1977); and attracted to and actively feeding on moist blood films from red pandas, Ailurus fulgens, (Dasgupta and Dasgupta, 1995). There have been a few reports of springtails infesting humans (Dasgupta and Dasgupta, 1995; Hunter, Frye and Schwartzwelder, 1960; Scott, Wiseman, and Stojanovich, 1962). Collembola can utilize phoresy as a means for transporting themselves from one habitat (or host) to another, particularly from birdnest to birdnest (Oniki and Butler, 1990). Thus, mounting evidence supports the contention that, although they usually are thought to be merely ubiquitous and harmless saprophytes, springtails can alter their behavior and become parasitic without undergoing evolutionary structural alterations to their feeding anatomy. While not limited to springtails, a change in fundamental feeding behavior is unusual and noteworthy.

Recently, I was contacted by an official of the National Pediculosis Society who was investigating the possibility that all members of a family that was living in Iowa and suffering from very sever and intensely pruritic mutifocal head, trunk, and pubic dermatitis were infested with parasitic collembolan (springtail) insects. After extensive diagnosis and treatment of their intese pruritis, each was told that he/she was suffering from "delusional parasitosis" and was referred for psychiatric evaluation. The adult female in the family is a registered obstetrical nurse and perceived that these lesions could be attributed to an organic rather than a psychological aetiology. She then commenced a search for "unconventional" professional assistance to help determine the cause for this condition. Interestingly, the rationale for contacting me may have been erroneous because: (1) although I am the senior author of a paper documenting the parasitism of a dog by human crab lice, Phthirus pubis, (Frye and Furman, 1968), I possess no special knowledge of springtails; and (2) although there is a textbook on tropical medicine edited by someone with an identical surname as mine, I am not the author. However, this approach was serendipitous because I began my veterinary career as a chronic disease epidemiologist and I am now a comparative pathologist with an admittedly ecclectic curiousity.

Affected patients complained of slightly raised rec, black, and/or white lesions that itched, and it felt as if something was crawling beneath the skin. When scraped or rubbed with vinegar or antifungal cream, some areas produced short red or white "fibres" that moved. In a few instances, entire creatures with "scorpion-like tails that curved downward" were teased out. In some instances, the patients reported seeing small, round, white "nit"-like objects adhering to their head hairs.

Routine tests and biopsies were negative for the presence of Herpesviral dermatitis, mite infestation (scabies), and head- and bodylouse infestation (pediculosis). However, the white nit-like objects that adhered to individual head hairs probably were the eggs of headlice. Some skin biopsies revealed the presence of arthropod insects that were characterized as collembolas. Because of their similar small size, it is unlikely that the springtails used the headlice as phoretic transport vehicles to move between hosts. Therefore, it appears that some patients were simultaneously infested with both springtails and headlice.

A literature search revealed an expanding source of information that documents that springtails have become true parasites of a variety of animal hosts even though they lack specialized feeding structures. Once the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia began to investigate pruritic dermatitis of unknown pathogenicity, they found 123 cases. These cases included 122 people from 22 states in the U.S. and 1 person who was thought to have been infested in South Korea; all of these cases occurred from 1990 to 1995. The largest number were from California. Most were originally believed to be instances of scabies or pediculosis and, accordingly, were treated initially with prescription and/or over-the-counter proprietary insecticidal preparations. Most of these cases were traced to (or at least thought to be related to) a variety of outdoor occupations, contacts with domestic and wild animals, gardening activities, exposure to various fungi, etc. Patients ranged from young children to elderly adults. The sex ratio was 59% female:43% male. In one-third of the households, more than one inhabitant was affected by "atypical" pruritic dermatitis for which mites, lice, or other common arthropods could NOT be implicated as the aetiologic agent(s).

Whether the immune status of the affected individuals played a major role in promoting springtail parasitism or whether insecticide resistance was a component in these cases is entirely conjectural; however, both factors have been suggested as possibilities. In all of these cases, the patient’s serological status with respect to HIV infection is unknown because of privacy protection; the liberal use of lindane and other potent organochlorine-containing acaricidal or insecticidal preparations was documented, but their actual role as promoters of immunoincompetence or chemical resistance is unknown.

To the date of this writing, the taxa that have been reported to induce intense pruritic dermatitis in man are: Entomobryo nivalis and E. tenuicauda (Hunter, et al, 1960; Scott, et al, 1962); Hypogastrura menubrialis and Sora buski (Megnin, 1839; Freche and Beille, 1896). In addition, Orchesella albosa var. oinslferi was recorded infesting humans without causing pruritis (Scott, et al, 1962).

In summary, these cases of collemboliasis may be only medical curiousities , or they may be the first "sentinel" instances of a significant emerging parasitism.

REFERENCES

Dasgupta, R. and Dasgupta, R. (1990). Collembolan Insects as Potential Parasites. Trans. R. Soc. Trop. Med. Hyg., 84:438.

Dasgupta, R. and Dasgupta, R. (1995). A Treatise on Zoophily in Collembola with a Summary of Knowledge on Origin and Evolution of Parasitism in Saprophagous Forms of Animals. J. Bengal Natural History (New Series) 1(2):53-60.

Freche, L. and Beille, L. (1896). Un Parasitisme Accidentale de L’Homme. Comp. Rend. Acad. Sci. Paris, 73-80.

Griffiths, G.C.D. (1985). Hypogastrurua succinea (Collembola:Hypogastruridae) Dispers by Adults of the Cabbot Maggot, Delia radicum (Diptera:Anthomytidae), Infected with the Parasitic Fungus Strongwellsea castrans (Zygomycetes:Entomophthoracea). Canadian Entomol., 8:1063-1064.

Hrivnak, L. (1981). Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of Collembolan Fauna in the Nests of Small Mammals in the Hight Tatra Mountains. Biologica, Bratislava, 36(5):363-372.

Hrivnak, L. (1983). Signs of Collembola in the Nests of Small Mammals in the High Tatras and Hyposometric Distribution of Individual Collembolan Species. Biologica, Bratislava, 38(6):555-567.

Hunter, G.W., Frye, W.W. and Schwartzwelder, J.C. (1961). A MANUAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE). Philadelphia, PA; W.B. Saunders Co. xxx+892 pp.

Husband, R.W. and Brown, T.M. (1976). Insects Associated with Michigan Bumble-Bees (Bombus sp.). Great Lakes Entomol., 91:57-62.

Mitchell, W.G. and Turner, E.C., Jr. (1969). Arhtropod Parasites on the Starling (sturnus vulgaris) in Southwest Virginia. J. Econ. Entomol., 62(1):195-197.

Nosek, J. and Vysotskaya, S.O. (1976). Protura from Nests of Small Mammals in the Trans-Capethian Oblast. Entomol. Obzr., 55(4):808-813.

Oniki, Y, and Butler, J.F. (1989/1990). The Presence of Mites and Insects in the Gut of two Species of Chewing Lice, (Myrsidea sp. Mallophaga). Accident or Predation? Rev. Bras. Biol., 49(4):1013-1016.

Roy, P. and Dasgupta, B. (1971). Behavior of Chrysomys megacephala (Fahr) and Hemispyrellia ligurriens (Wied.) as Parasites of Living Animals under Experimental Conditions. S. Afr. J. Med. Sci., 36:85-91.

Scott, H.G., Wiseman, J.S.,, and Stojanovich, C.J. (1962). Collembola Infesting Man. Ann. Entomological Soc. America, 55(4):428-430.

Szabo, I. (1977). Examination of the Fauna in the Nests of Mammals and Birds in Hungary. Allantani Kozl., Budapest, 64(1-4):153-158.

Tosi, L. (1977). Alimenti Animali Neili Diete di Alcune Species di Collemboli, Richerce Preliminary sul Cannibalismo in Sinella caeca (Schott). Ateneo Paramense. Acta. Nat., 13:445-455.

Tosi, L. and Sartini, M. (1983). Interactions Between Social and Feeding Behaviour in Sinella caecs (Collembola). Boll. Zool. Naples, 50:189-195.

Waldorf, E. (1971). Selective Egg Cannibalism in Sinella curviseta (Collembola, Entomohryidae). Ecology, 52:673-675. 

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Everyone with Morgellons should sit down and read the following report. It’s long, but you will find it fascinating, I wish all those in the bird mite forums would consider this and Morgellons over bird mites. Also, the following talks about some pretty nasty and dangerous chemicals used on a persons skin, PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT this, it will not cure you. However, the sulfur soap I mentioned before at 10% sulfur is excellent.

Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington

Vol. 53, February, 1951, No. 1.

Unusual Scalp Dermatitis in Humans Caused by the Mite, Dermatophagoides (Acarina, epidermoptidae)
By Jay Traver, Department of Zoology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

The writer and two other members of her immediate family, all of us adult females, have been for the past several years the unwilling hosts to the mite, Dermatophagoides scheremetewskyi Bogdanow. Since the published reports on this mite as a parasite of humans are not numerous, it seems desirable to present an account of the activities of the mite from first hand information. Symptoms, treatment employed in the attempt to control or eradicate the mite, reaction of certain members of the medical profession to this problem, and the present status of the situation are therefore set forth.

It is to Dr. Edward Baker of the Division of Insect Identification, Bureau of Entomology and Plant Quarantine, Washington, D.C., that we owe the identification of this mite, and the synonymy herewith is presented. It is to him also that the writer owes her contact with Dr. Gaines W. Eddy of the same Bureau in Washington, who has suggested the use of certain new synthetic organic compounds as scabicides in the treatment of this mite. Had it not been for Dr. Baker’s interest in this problem, expressed in personal correspondence, it is quite possible that no attempt would have been made to publish this personal account of an infestation with the mite Dermatophagoides.

Personal Observation of the Activity of the Mite.
Small itching red papules on the scalp were noted as early as 1934. This condition persisted without much change in spite of sporadic efforts to control it, until the spring and early summer of 1943. At this time, the sensations as of some arthropod crawling, scratching and biting became very pronounced, and occurred over wide areas of the scalp. The idea that Pediculus humanus capitus might be the causative agent was not borne out since at no time was it possible to ‘comb out’ a louse nor to locate nits on the hairs. Further, the infestation did not yield to treatment known to be effective against pediculosis. The itching and crawling sensations were most pronounced between 10 p.m. and the early hours of the morning.

By the middle of August, 1943, the annoyance had become excessive and more strenuous efforts were made to clear up the infestation and to locate the causative agent. Three areas of the scalp were principally involved, a space as large as the palm of the hand above and behind each ear, and an even larger area on the top of the head in the frontal region. The sensations as of something biting, scratching, and crawling from place to place were now almost continuous, becoming apparent as early as 10 a.m. and continuing all day and far into the night, increasing in intensity from 11 p.m. onward. Sound sleep was quite impossible. The principal areas involved were also painful and swollen, and as was discovered later, the epidermis over each of them was extremely thickened. On the suggestion of a druggist, a soap containing 1% mercuric iodide was employed as a shampoo. This seemed to irritate the mites, which became very active after the use of this soap. Many of them began to move down out of the scalp, and some of the thickened epidermis began to slough off.

Those that continued down on to the body soon became embedded in itching red papules reminiscent of trombiculid infestations. Treated with strong sulphur ointment, they apparently did no further damage. They could be found on the shoulders, under the arms, beneath the breasts, on chest and both upper and lower back, occasionally around the umbilicus. The sensations of crawling and biting which were felt on legs and feet, in the latter case often on but seldom between the toes, indicated that some of the mites had migrated to the lower extremities.

Others of the mites, however, moved down on to the face, invading eyes, ears and nostrils. It was the mites in these locations that did the most damage. Both eyes became so badly swollen that it was impossible to move the eyeballs; to look to right or left it was necessary to move the entire head. Invasion of the eyes was not confined to the period immediately following the use of the mercuric iodide soap, but continued for many days thereafter, this invasion occurring mostly between midnight and 3 a.m. The victim of their attack would have fallen into a light sleep, when a sharp pin-prick-like sensation in one eye, followed by an immediate response on the part of the already badly swollen eye would drive sleep away quite effectively. The movements of a mite that had entered under the eyelid could be felt as it crawled slowly about, then began to ‘dig in’ at which moment the eye suddenly became even more swollen than before. An almost continuous flow of lachrymal secretion seemed to attract the mites and made vision difficult. At no time, however, was there evidence of the formation of pus in the affected eyes.

Invasion of the nostrils produced quite distressing symptoms, as of something crawling and scratching in the mucus membrane; of then this accompanied by a distinct irritation of the throat, trachea and bronchi. Early invasions of the ears seemed confined to the region of the pinna, in the folds of which the mites burrowed, producing the usual itching red papules. Their presence in the ears was the cause of some concern on my part, as it is well known that certain species of mites may cause great damage in the ears of small animals. Apparently we may consider ourselves most fortunate that his particular mite did not choose to invade the external auditory meatus, from which location it might easily have pierced the eardrum. The difficulty of controlling such an infestation in the ear, had it occurred, is at once apparent, since as yet we have found no drug that is completely effective against the mites. Even had such a drug been known, its use in the ears might have been inadvisable. Unfortunately for humans, medical doctors are much less versed in dealing with such situations than are the veterinarians who care for our dogs and cats.

In addition to the trouble caused directly by the mites, a certain amount of allergic reaction and probably also of secondary bacterial or fungicidal reaction were also present. It is difficult if not impossible to determine how much additional injury and discomfort may have resulted from these secondary infections.

The most acute phase of the infestation yielded to control measures within six weeks. Henceforth, the symptoms previously mentioned became less sever and somewhat chronic, exhibiting an increase in activity more or less periodically every two and one-half to three months. This condition has continued up to the present time. Even this summer (1950) live mites have been taken from all three members of the family. July and August are their periods of greatest activity.

In spite of my optimism in regard to the limited activity of those mites that invaded the ears, there is still a question as to whether or not the difficulty I am now having with my ears, and the rather sudden onset of deafness on the part of the other infested members of my family, may have been aggravated at least by the presence of the mites. Likewise, I wonder if the chronic sinusitis to which I have been heir for some time may also have been increased by those mites which entered the nostrils.

The much-thickened epidermis had sloughed off from the three most heavily infested areas of the scalp before the end of the the period of acute symptoms, and since that time no such unusual thickening in these or other parts of the body has been noted. Itching red papules continue to occur irregularly on the scalp, the pinna of the ears, on the face, and occasionally on neck chest and back. Such areas frequently become covered with small incrustations. The mites succeeded in establishing themselves temporarily on one writst, between the third and fourth finger of one hand, just below one ear, on the ventral surface of one knee, and just below the hair line above the left temple. Applications of 2 to 5% aqueous solution of gentian to each of these affected areas except the one above the temple, repeated daily for a week or ten days, finally cleared up each of these sites of infestation, some of which were reminiscent of the behavior of scarcoptes scabiei. The network of red lines and itching swellings above the left temple seems also to have been brought under control, largely through the use of sulphur ointment and lysol. There still remain infested areas on the face, in the upper corner of the lower lip and in the right eyebrow, which have not yet been brought under control. Tunnels or burrows, presumably in the dermis, could be seen on the wrist, in the soft skin between the fingers, on the knee, below the ear, above the temple, and on the lower lip. On wrist and knee, these burrows took the form of one or more or less straight central tunnel, visible as a slightly raised reddish line, from which extended at right angles, several shorter lateral tunnels. Above the temple, as noted, a network of raised red lines with small swellings here and there, indicated the presence of the mites. In other areas mentioned, the tunnels were more or less U-shaped, somewhat wider at one end, and apparently without lateral branches. Inasmuch as it has never been possible to locate a mite in the sloughed-off epidermis or in the small incrustations which form over infested areas, it seems probable that the burrows are actually in the dermis. Further evidence for this belief is the fact that live mites have been captured from the deeper regions underlying such an incrustation when the latter had been removed. Certainly, during the period of acute symptoms, when mites could be felt running about below the thickened epidermal masses, and causing their host almost to tear off bits of the scalp in an effort to get at them, none were even inconvenienced by any substance used against them until the mercuric iodide soap was employed. One of the most annoying runways occupied by the mites, the entire length of the right eyebrow, with extensions to and from the adjacent hairline, does not show on the surface any indication of its presence save a slight swelling. Even when such a burrow does not show externally, however, its presence it readily ascertainable by reason of the activity of the mites, which habitually travel from one area to another along certain well-defined highways. If these highways were in the epidermis, it should seemingly have been possible to capture mites in them, as the mites moved from place to place.

Symptoms experienced by other members of the family.

It was not until some time after my acute symptoms had subsided that other members of the family began to feel the effects of the mites. Whether they were less susceptible to the mites, from whatever source these were originally obtained, or whether they were infested from my infestation, we shall never know. As I had not at any time discussed the details of my symptoms with either of them, it is evident that they did not develop symptoms ‘in sympathy’ with mine. Only now and then, one of them would mention her particular symptoms as of the moment. One has had more difficulty with mites invading the pinna of the ear than I have had. These mites, when driven from the ear by the use of sulphur ointment or some other substance, moved down on to the body and became embedded there, particularly on the chest, shoulders and lower back. This member has also had much trouble with mites invading the nostrils. The other member of the family had more difficulty with mites embedded on the neck and shoulders. At no time have either of them suffered acutely from the presence of the mites.

The medical profession.

Aid was of course sought from the medical profession, but very little help in treatment for the symptoms was forthcoming from this source. A reliable oculist who was consulted during the period of my acute symptoms reported the finding of some foreign objects embedded in the eye, but as these were apparently not in the cornea, he thought they would do no serious damage. A dermatologist, recommended by a local physician, was apparently convinced without more than a very casual examination, that the patient’s symptoms were largely imaginary, those that did exist having been caused by an ill-advised attempt on the part of the patient to rid herself of something that was not there. Not until three days after my visit to his office, however, did he tell me this. Even he could not fail to note the greatly swollen eyes and the three areas of thickened epidermis on the scalp. He X-rayed the eyes and the affected scalp areas, and recommended several days’ stay in the hospital, ostensibly for further treatment of the eyes. Actually, such treatment consisted solely of applications of hot boric acid compresses to the eyes, and the use of cold boric acid as an eye wash treatment which I could have rendered myself at home fully as well. After the third day in the hospital, he turned me over to a neurologist for treatment of my ‘psychoneurotic’ condition. The patient, however, succeeded in convincing the neurologist that she had no need of his services. The local physician now suggested the use of sulphur ointment on the scalp, such as had been used effectively by the patient against mites embedded elsewhere on the body. She also suggested the use of sulfathiazole, which seemed to aid materially in reducing the allergic reactions and possible secondary infections. The complete amazement of this physician, when she was later shown some of the first mites to be captured, indicated full well that she, too, had accepted at face value the dermatologist’s diagnosis of ‘Just imagination.’ Hence any real aid in the treatment of the scabitic condition, other than the suggested use of sulphur on the scalp, came from the patient herself or from parasitologists. It is doubtful if the X-raying of eyes and scalp had much effect on the mites, although it may certainly have aided materially in clearing up secondary infections.

Treatment.

To date, no treatment applied has been able to bring about complete eradication of the mites. However, many substances used on the scalp and elsewhere on the body have afforded welcome even though temporary relief from the annoying sensation produced by the mites. It would seem that a certain number of the substances employed have actually killed some or all of the adult mites, but have had no effect on the ova. Any substance used on the scalp was applied with sterile cotton or with a pipette, usually being then well rubbed in with the finger tips. Twenty-four to 48 hours was the usual length of time between the application of any one substance and its removal by means of a shampoo, although some substances were left on the scalp for at least a week. The scalp was always shampooed as a preliminary to the application of any substance, and no other substance was used until the preceding one had been thoroughly washed out. After the use of certain of these compounds, a period of two to three months often elapsed before renewed symptoms indicating the presence of the mites were apparent. On circumstantial evidence this might be taken to indicate that the length of time required for the maturation and hatching of a young mite from the ovum is approximately two to three months. There is always the possibility, however, that the young mites may not make their presence felt at once, and that the growth period is really somewhat shorter. Attempts at control have continued actively from 1943 up to the present time.

Many substances employed as a possible means of control proved useless for that purpose. Among these may be mentioned: DDT powder, 10% used as for pediculosis; kerosene emulsion with vinegar; Seargant’s Mange Cure, which had been of value in treating mange on two pet cats some years before, but was of no help in the present situation; ethyl, normal butyl and isopropyl alcohols, used separately and in varying strengths from 70 to 100%; ether, applied to the scalp a few drops at a time; 3% phenol, also as used for pediculosis.

The following chemicals have proved of value in bringing relief, sometimes of a very temporary nature, from the activities of the mite:

Sulphur ointment, 15% USP, applied to the scalp or other parts of the body. This could be left on for several days after application. It is one of the most helpful substances employed to date. In the early treatment of mites on the body, a stronger preparation of sulphur was used, made by mixing flowers of sulphur with Crisco or Spry. The exact percent of the sulphur so used was never determined. At one time only during the period of acute symptoms was any sensitivity to sulphur noticed. The ointment used at that time was made up in lanolin. This sensitivity soon disappeared and no indication of it has been felt since that time. Mites treated with sulphur seem to die in situ.

Gentian violet, 2 to 5% aqueous solution. This, if left on any affected part of the body for a week or 10 days, and if constantly augmented by additions of the same every few days, proved completely effective in eradicating the small colonies already mentioned, on wrist, knee, fingers and below one ear. Unfortunately it was never feasible to leave this dye on the scalp for more than two days at the most, as it is by no means desirable to go about with one’s scalp and hair painted purple. There is also some question as to whether or not gentian violet would prove as effective over areas in which the mites were more deeply located or where they had been "at home" for a considerable period of time.

Lysol, a relatively strong solution (4 teaspoonfuls to the pinte, or even somewhat stronger) has proved to be one of the most effective methods of killing the adult mites. It can be used, at this strength, on small areas only. It has the disadvantage of possessing a strong odor and is also hard on the skin. The epidermis usually peels off from any area so treated some time after the use of this solution. In a weaker solution it has been used over the entire scalp following a shampoo, usually being rinsed off in a few hours. It is also by the use of lysol solution that some of the mites have been captured, as noted below.

Zemo, both regular and extra strength solutions, has proved of value in reducing the irritation caused by the mites’ activities, and may even have killed some of the adult mites.

Germicidal soap, 1% mercuric-iodide, used as a shampoo, appears to be quite effective against the mites, but does not eliminate all of them, nor does it appear to have any effect upon the ova. This soap is used quite regularly as a shampoo, and since no ill effects have followed its use except at one period of acute symptoms, it seems evident that this soap cannot have been the causative substance which precipitated the acute attack. No evidence of sensitivity to this soap has been noted. It often causes the mites to migrate, however, which is not desirable if the migration is toward eyes or ears.

Zinc oxide ointment. This has been used at times alone or in combination with sulphur ointment, as is sometimes recommended, to alleviate itching on areas of the face and neck. Painted around each eye, it served to prevent the entrance of many mites into the eyes, as they could be felt moving up to this barrier but going no further.

In addition, certain other compounds known to be of value in the control of sarcoptic and other forms of mange, have been employed. Of these, the first two were suggested by Dr. Gaines W. Eddy, who has recently published the results of a series of experiments with some new synthetic organic compounds as scabicides (Jour. Investig. Dermatology 12(2): 117-123, 1949). He likewise sent me samples of several of these substances, enough for two or more treatments with each. It seems quite possible at the present writing that one or both of these new chemicals may eventually prove effective in the eradication of our mites.

Benzyl salicylate. An aqueous solution of salicylic acid and benzyl ester 10%, in 2% of Tween 20, is the first of these two drugs. Samples of the Tween 20 were kindly donated by the Atlas Powder Company of Wilmington, Del. This has been used on my own scalp for several different doses during the past two months. After each such use, the symptoms were temporarily eliminated, but migration of the mites was quite noticeable. It has recently been employed in the treatment of one of the members of my family, but living mites are still present on her scalp.

2-phenylcyclohexanol 10%, and Tween 20, 2% as an aqueous solution, is the second chemical recommended by Dr. Eddy. The Dow Chemical Company of Midland, Mich., was kind enough to provide me with samples of this compound. It has recently been used on my own scalp. As yet, the results are inconclusive, but again the symptoms are temporarily alleviated. Migration of mites occurs after its use. Ultimate success might be achieved by the frequent repetition of this substance to the scalp and other affected areas, if used repeatedly over a sufficient period of time so as to kill all newly hatched larvae before they reach maturity.

Benzyl benzoate. This has been employed in two forms: first as a liquid, and second as an emulsion, the Wellcome brand, which was much used by British scientists during World War II in the treatment of human scabies. Some relief was obtained from its use, particularly when the emulsion was employed. It seemed especially effective against those mites which had located in the pinna of the ears. Migration of the mites after the use of this compound was most pronounced. Recently, the emulsion has been used on small areas of the scalp at double the strength recommended. Some migration has been caused, but many of the mites seem to have been killed in situ. As it is probably unwise to use benzyl benzoate at double strength except on very limited areas, and as it fails to effect complete cure even when so used, this drug cannot be relied upon to control the mite under consideration.

Tetraethylthiuram monosulphide. Another remedy much used, and with good success according to the literature on the subject, against human and animal scabies. Used as an alcoholic solution as recommended, it has not proved as useful in the treatment of our mite as have several other substances. It is stated to give excellent control against Sarcoptes and Notoedres, but it seems not to be the answer when used against Dermatophagoides.

Gamma isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane. This was used in the form of an ointment sold under the commercial name of KWELL. Ticks and mites are reported to be killed readily by this substance, but not so the mite Dermatophagoides. It was left on the scalp for several days before removal with a shampoo, and almost immediately thereafter the mites could be felt moving about in their accustomed places.

40% aqueous hypo (sodium hyposulfite). This was allowed to dry on the scalp, and was followed by a second application, which was also allowed to dry. Sometimes hypo was used alone, or again was followed by 5% HCl after the second application was thoroughly dry. Both methods often brought relief for several days, even for a week or more. But again the ova were evidently not destroyed. Although this treatment has been repeated many times during the past four years, the mites are still with us. However, it did give temporary relief, and caused only a moderate amount of migration on the part of the mites.

Considering the above list of chemicals, many of which are purported to eradicate several species of mites commonly infesting man and domestic animals, it would seem that the mite presently under consideration is much more difficult to deal with than are such other genera as Sarcoptes, Notoedres, Psorptes and Chorioptes. Whether or not this is due to an inherent ability of Dermatophagoides to withstand strong chemicals or whether, as it seems more likely, this mite inhabits the dermis and is therefore less subject to contact with chemicals which are employed against it, we cannot say. At any rate, we have first-hand information that this mite is not easily eradicated.

Capturing the Mite.

This was a tedious process, and the number of mites actually captured is surprisingly low. This does not mean, to me at least, that there were not many more mites present at any given time, which could not be captured by any method employed.

My first attempt at locating the causative agent by examining sloughed-off epidermis and incrustations from infested areas, after treating these with KOH, was completely negative. Hence it followed that similar material which was collected from my scalp and body and sent away to two different parasitologists for examination also yielded negative results. Both of the parasitologists were interested in the case, and anxious to help if possible, but they were located many miles away from the individual who had the infestation.

During the period of the acute symptoms, my eyes were so badly swollen that it would have been impossible for me to recognize a mite had I been able to capture it. Furthermore, during that summer I did not have a micrscope at my disposal. A few months after the acute symptoms had subsided, however, I captured two very small Hymenoptera which had been felt crawling about on the scalp. These have been identified by Mr. C. F. W. Muesebeck, Chief of the Division of Insect Identification Bureau of Entomology and Plant Quarantine, in Washington, as members of the Trichogrammatidae, know to be egg parasites. There will never be any certainty as to whether or not these Trichogrammatidae bore any relationship to the mite infestation, but of course there is always at least a possibility that they were parasitic upon the ova of Dermatophagoides. The technic, if one may call it that, of their capture was the same as that which was soon successful in the capture of the first mite found. It consisted of holding a bit of sterilized cotton, dipped in lysol solution, firmly in place for several minutes directly over a spot where a mite or some other arthropod could be felt moving about. Success by this method was never very great, but at least it was thus that most of the few mites taken directly from the scalp have been captured. If successful, the mite still alive and moving sluggishly, would be found adhering to the cotton when the latter was removed from the scalp.

A rather amazing number of other arthropods have likewise been captured from the scalp in the same fashion. Among these were: several Hymenoptera of a considerably larger size than the Trichogrammatidae; an oribatid mite; small portions of the skeleton of an unknown arthropod bearing feathered hairs similar to those of a trombiculid mite; what appears to be the cast skin of a small spider; an apparent jassid; and of course, many small gnats and other Diptera, among these being the psychodids and ceratopogonids. Pollen of various sorts was also found commonly. Perhaps a study of the flora and fauna of the human scalp in summer might be interesting.

A modification of the method of capture indicated above also yielded several mites of Dermatophagoides. Immediately following a shampoo, especially when the mercuric iodide soap had been employed for that purpose, mites could be felt moving and scratching at various places on the scalp. Sometimes, following such activity, there would occur a sharp pin-prick-like sensation in a different spot than the original one, and the appearance at that spot of one of the customary itching red papules which often increased in size later. This I interpret to mean that the mite, disturbed but not killed by the substance used in the shampoo, had come up from its "den" in the dermis, and when on the surface of the skin had moved to a new location, when again it burrowed in, perhaps using a hair follicle as its point of entrance. If now the saturated cotton was applied before the second burrowing-in took place, there was a good chance of capturing the mite.

Another method of capture that has been met with greater success is as follows. After treatment of the scalp or face with sulphur or indeed with almost any of the chemicals listed as being of value, mites could sometimes be found the following morning on the pillow of the individual using this treatment. These mites, collected by means of a bit of cotton moistened with water, were usually dead when taken, but recently several live, active impregnated females have been captured in this manner.

At one time only did I succeed in "digging out" a mite from my own scalp, by means of an exploratory fingernail applied to the area beneath an incrustation, the latter having been forcibly removed. The mites had been felt moving about under this incrustation. When thus captured, the mite was quite alive and healthy, and waved its legs lustily as it was being examined under the microscope.

It is perhaps worthy of note that even a small mite, when moving about actively in or on one’s scalp feels "as large as a cat." A peculiar sensation as of pressure sometimes occurs synchronously with the activities of a mite which has been annoyed by treatment with some chemical. This has been especially noticeable after the use of sulphur ointment. Then there is another peculiar sensation sometimes felt: a "streaming" activity, as though many mites, perhaps small ones, were leaving some common center, due to the use on the scalp of some chemical distasteful to them, and "fanning out" in various directions from this center. In fact, some mites may later be located in red papules that had not been there before, on face, neck or shoulders, following such a streaming. I venture to preduct that if any dermatologist should become the host of this mite, he would not diagnose his case as "Just imagination."

Possible Source of the Infestation.

The source of the infestation is completely unknown. Two possible sources are: (1) two pet cats of the household, the last one of which died at least ten years ago; these cats suffered from what we called "mange" for which ailment we treated them, with some degree of success, with Seargant’s Mange Cure; and (2) a neighbor’s doc, which for years suffered from some sever skin infection which several good veterinarians tried in vain to bring under control, so that the dog had finally to be destroyed. It is possible that our cats acquired their infestation from the dog, and that we acquired ours from either the cats or the dog.

At the time of the most acute symptoms, in the summer of 1943, I tended toward the belief that the infestation had been acquired, in my case, from a woodchuck which I had used to obtain material for some histological preparations. That the woodchuck did have ectoparasites, I know for a certainty, as I not only removed from its body some lice (apparently Enderleinellus marmotae) but also some immature or nymphal Ixodes. I noted some of the latter climbing my arm as I worked on the woodchuck, and later captured one nymphal Ixodes, probably cookei, from my own scalp. However the fact that I had noticed itching papules in my scalp for some years previous to this time, leads me to believe now that the mite Dermatophagoides did not come to me from the woodchuck. This mite has been rather recently reported from rats, but I have had no occasion to work with rats other than to kill an occasional white rat for histological purposes. The same mite has been reported from the skin of birds. But I have had occasion to come in contact with birds only to pick off a few ectoparasites from such dead specimens as may have been brought into the laboratory, and most of this has been done since 1943.

The fact that the infestation has lasted for so many years seems to indicate that the mite can adjust itself readily to life on or in the human skin, and maintain itself there once it is well established.

Taxonomic Considerations.

This mite belongs to the family Epidermoptidae, which may be easily distinguished from its nearest ally, the family Psoroptidae, by the fact that the females of the Epidermoptidae possess suckers on all the tarsi, whilst females of the family Psoroptidae have long whiplike setae on the third tarsi.

Dermatophagoides Bogdanow, 1864
Dermatophagoides Bogdanow, 1864. Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Moscou 37 (1): 341-348, pl. 7, figs. 1-2.–Vitzhum, 1929. Tierreich Mitteleuropas, Acar, Bd. 3, 1f. 3,102–Sasa, 1950. Japanese Journal of Experimental Medicine 20:519-525.
Pachylichus Canestrini, 1894. Prospetto del’ Acarofauna Italiana, fasc. 6:824-829, pl. 77, figs 1-4.–Berlese, 1897. Acari, Myriopoda, Scorpiones, Cryptostigmata, Sacroptidae, fasc. LXXXII, no 12.–Oudemans, 1904, Ent. Bericht. 20:190-195 (synonomy with Dermatophagoides.)
Mealia Berlese, 1897. Acari, Myriopoda, Scorpiones, Cryptostigmata, Sarcoptidae 1:104.–Berlese, 1898. Idem., fasc. LXXXIX, no. 10, and XCII, no. 3 and no. 4–Canestrini and Kramer, 18999, Das Tierreich, Demodicidae and Sarcoptidae, 137-138.–Trouessart, 1901, Bull. Soc. Zool. France XXVI:82-84.
Viscopteres Sasa, 1947. Nisshin Igaku 34(3):167-170.

Type: Dermatophagoides scheremetewskyi Bogdanow, 1864. Bogdanow described two forms of mites. The first of these, designated D. scheremetewskyi, is a female, depicted in dorsal and ventral views in figs. 1a and 1b. It occurred on the surface of the skin of humans suffering from the itch. The mite of the second type, found on a single occasion on a child suffering from herpes farinosus, and designated by Bogdanow as "Acarus de l’Herpes farinosus," is depicted in figs. 2a and 2b. It is a male, very probably that of D. scheremetewskyi as Bogdanow himself suggested; certainly it belongs in the same genus as the previously described female mite. Bogdanow compares his new genus with Dermatophagus, saying that it has "une grande resemblance ave selui des acriens due genre Dermatophagus, decrit en detail par Furstenberg."

He notes two differences between Dermatophagoides and Dermatophagus: (1) the conformation of two lyre-shaped chitinous arcs near the genital opening of the female; and (2) differences in the termini of the third legs of the females. (Dermatophagus Furstenberg, 1861, is a synonym of Chorioptes Gervais, according to Ewing, 1929.)

Dr. Menber, an M.D., reports on the finding of a species of parasitic mite infesting the human skin and causing a sever dermatitis. This mite he describes and figures, as: "Acarus incapsulator or Sarcoptes trichogenetos (Boeking)." The mite is said to have been found also in capsules beneath the skin of the same patient and was thought to be related to or be the causative agent of trichinosis, hence the specific name applied to it.

North American records are: Texas; in a house in Kentucky; from a rat in Florida; from a house in Chester, N.H., causing an itch; and from New York. These, combined with the European distribution, indicate a rather widespread range and eventually the mite should be found throughout most of the world.

Several other species have been placed in Dermatophagoides, but much work is needed before the exact status of the various species can be determined with certainty. Dr. Manabu Sasa, of the Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Tokyo, Japan (The Japanese Journal of Experimental Medicine, vol. 20, pp. 519-525, 1950), discuss the genus Dermatophagoides in Japan. D. saitoi (Sasa) was taken in sputum of a patient with typical Loeffler’s syndrom, D. takeuchii was found in urine, and an undertermined species was obtained from a patient with chronic bronchial asthma.

Generic characters. Body oval. Dorsal shield present. Prominent transverse groove anterior to middle of body, the two hind pairs of legs posterior to this groove. Sexual dimorphism evident, especially noticeable in legs of male; however, all legs in both sexes are well developed. Posterior end of body more or less rounded, not lobed in either sex. A pair of copulatory suckers present on anal plate of male. Genital openings of female between third coxae; surrounded by a crescentic anterior and two curved lateral sclerotized supports. Corresponding opening of male somewhat more posterior, lying between fourth coxae. Penis short, conical. Epimera of first legs not united. All tarsi in both sexes with short terminal stalks (peduncles) which bear cup-shaped suckers. Claws, where present, small and not easily discernible. Two pairs of long, strong posterior setae, the outer pair longer. One pair of vertical setae, also long and strong, arise from anterior portion of dorsal shield. Chelicerae powerful, terminating in paired chelate cutting surfaces which are dentate on the inner margins. Legs I and II directed forward; legs III and IV directed backward.

Dermatophagoides scheremetewskyi Bogdanow
Dermatophagoides scheremetewsky Bogdanow, 1864. Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Moscou 37(1):341-348.
Mealia pteronyssina Berlese, 1897. Acari, Myripoda, Scorpiones, Cryptostigmata, Sarcoptida 1:104.
Acarus incapsulator Menger, 1896. Texas Medical News, San Antonio, Texas, Sept. 24:1-20 (attributed to Boeking).
Sarcoptes, trichogenetos Menger, 1896. Texas Medical News, San Antonio, Texas, Sept. 25:1-20 (attributed to Boeking).

Eleven females and nine males, all adults, were available for study. Three of the females, taken alive, were observed before being killed. On larva and two nymphs are also present in the available material. Mites were mounted (a) in clarite, after clearing in xylol, or (b) in modified Berlese’s medium, usually direct from 35% alcohol. Some mites were cleared in KOH previous to mounting; others, including most of those mounted by the second method, did not undergo such preliminary treatment. Male mites are almost transparent, but female mites, unless cleared, show well only such structures as are on the surface which is uppermost. Certain morphological features are seen more clearly in mites mounted by the first method; others, by the second.

Size. Female: 10 specimens measured. Average length, 355.2 u, from tips of mouthparts to tip of abdomen; average width 196.8u. Longest, 400u; shortest 320u; widest 240u; narrowest 160u. Male: 8 specimens measured. Average length 296u; av width 180u. Longest: 352u; shortest 256u; widest 208U; narrowest, 128u.

Mouthparts. See Plate III, figs. 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19. These are quite complicated, heavily sclerotized, and interpretation of some of th parts is difficult. Two large chelicerae are present, each bearing distally a pair of cutting surfaces, the inner margins of which are dentate or serrate, as indicated in figures 15, 16, 17 and 18. From ventral view, two large triangular or conical structures are seen; from beneath these, the cutting surfaces are visible. Perhaps these represent a bilobed hypostome or rostrum. These structures are shown in the ventral views of male and female mites, Pl. I, figs. 3 and 4. Viewed from above, a very similar pair of triangular structures lying directly beneath the basis capituli almost obscures the cutting surfaces, which can be seen only by focussing downward. These are perhaps the basal portions of the chelicerae, on which the cutting surfaces are bone. It appears, then, that there are two sets of sclerotized, conical sturcutres, on pair dorsal, the other ventral, with the cutting surfaces between them, and attached to the uppermost pair of sclerotized cones. A pair of well-developed palps is present, on palp lying on each side of the conical structures. Each is four-segmented, if the basal segment <CLIP from this page (15) to page 22>

One mite was kept alive for two days, at the end of which period it was as lusty and active as when first caught. Immersion in water, in which the cotton was kept moist, did not seem to disturb the mite. Occasionally a mite would leave the cotton and try to crawl about on the floor of the watch glass, but made little progress.

One mite was killed in warm, not hot, water in which it died very quickly. A second was immersed in lysol solution of the strength used for treatment of the scalp. For 30 seconds it swam actively, then became quiescent. At 45 seconds, no movement could be detected. It is thus evident that the mites are susceptible and easily killed, if the killing substance can be brought into contact with them. But when in or under the epidermis, they are well protected.

Opportunity is taken here to mention a similar situation in which another mite, Bdellonyssus sylviarum (C.&F.), family Laelaptidae (Dermanyssinae) was the causative agent. Several years ago a Mrs. X wrote me in regard to a difficulty which she and other members of her family had been experiencing. They had been suffering considerably from the attacks of an unknown "something" which was present on their scalps and bodies, and which they had been unable to eradicated. Mrs. X, on the advice of her physician, had consulted a dermatologist, who told her she was merely suffering from a "phobia" and to go home and forget it. Two days later, Mrs. X was fortunate enough to capture two dead mites that fell from her scalp. These she took to the dermatologist, who now became interested in her case, and prescribed some lotion as a treatment. Meantime he sent the two mites off for identification, and in due time they came to me. I believed them to be Bdellonyssus sylviarum, but sent them to Dr. Edward W. Baker for confirmation. He concurred in the above identification.

I have had some further correspondence with Mrs. X on this subject. The last letter, written several months ago, indicated that she was still suffering from the effects of the parasites, and that nothing prescribed by doctor or dermatologist had been of permanent value in controlling her trouble. On the theory that English sparrows nesting under the eaves might have brought the mites into their home, the family had had the entire house fumigated, repainted and repapered and still Mrs. X suffered from the mites. The other members of her family had meantime recovered from their unpleasant experience with the arthropods.

Here, then, is another instance in which humans, attacked by mites other than Sarcoptes, have received scant attention from the medical profession. Had Mrs. X not been fortunate enough to capture the two mites, she might really have come to believe that she did have a "phobia," whatever that expression may be taken to mean. And even with the causative agent at hand, and identified, the dermatologist was unable to treat the infestation successfully.

A certain parasitologist, in conversation on the subject of mites, has told me that he has had several experiences similar to the above, in which persons fairly frantic from the attacks of some unknown creature had been unable to obtain aid from their doctors, and had written him or come to him for help.

What, on the other hand, could a medical adviser or dermatologist prescribe, in the present state of our lack of knowledge, in such a case? So little is known of the activity and behavior of many mites that may occasionally infest man, and so little also as to the effective methods of treatment. This is, I believe, a subject which is in great need of further investigation. I suggest that the medical profession might do well to take the lead in such a study.

The mite dermatophagoides scheremetewskyi Bogdanow, a member of the family Epidermoptidae, is herewith reported as attacking humans, infesting the scalp as well as other parts of the body. Its behavior is not similar to that of such mites as Sarcoptes. It is believed that the mites burrow down into the dermis, in which they make their runways, and that they occasionally come to the surface from these runways. In general, movements of the mites from place to place are believed to occur within the shelter of these runways.

To date, no treatment employed against the mite has been completely effective, in the sense of killing the ova as well as the adult mites. Nor has repeated re-application of any of the substances used, proved effective in eradication. Many different substances known to be highly effective against Sarcoptes and Notoedres have been employed as scabicides over the past seven years, in attempts to bring about control or eradication of the mites. Of these, the old standby, sulphur ointment 15%, is the one to which we return again and again, after other substances have failed. Yet it, too, has been unable to eradicate these arthropods. Three compounds which have been most recently used, benzyl salicylate, 2-phenylcyclohexanol, and benzyl benzoate used at double strength, may perhaps be the answer to our problem, but it is still too soon to know. Certain other substances known to be effective against sarcoptic scabies have proved of little value in the treatment of Dermatophagoides. Among these are tetraethylthiurum monosulfide, and benzyl benzoate used at the usual strength.

The infestations here reported have lasted ofver a period of at least seven years, and have occurred on three adult members of the same family. The source from which the infestation was originally obtained is unknown. If, as we surmise, infested cats or a dog suffering from mange may have been the source or sources, there has been no chance for reinfestation for some years, as these animals have long since died. But there is no certainty that the "mange" from which they suffered was produced by the same causative agent as that which has infested us. It seems probable that the human infestation has lasted for this period of time due to continued self-reinfection of each individual concerned, since the ova are apparently never destroyed by any treatment we have employed. It should be noted that the mites seem to thrive on cleanliness, if weekly, sometimes semi-weekly, shampoos during the entire period of time can be used as a criterion. The mites, be it recalled, occur principally on the scalp.

It is to be hoped that members of the medical profession may soon come to realize that it is possible for humans to be infested with mites other than Sarcoptes, give the patient the benefit of the doubt and try to determine the real cause of the ailment. It is not too easy for a person infested with said mites to make a diagnosis himself, nor to prescribe treatment if he is fortunate enough to locate the causative agent. The medical adviser and the dermatologist, on the other hand, are in a position to add much valuable information in regard to the habits and activities of this and other human-infesting mites, as well as to determine methods of control or eradication, if only they are willing to do so. We can but echo Bogdanow, when he states: "Il serait a desirer que les observations prochains de M. Scheremetewsky et des autres dermatologues nous donnent plus des details sure les acaricides, parasites de la surface de la peau de l’homme."

Had it not been that the writer of this article was (1) unwilling to accept the dermatologist’s verdict of "Just imagination";(2) had sufficient knowledge of parasitology and access to enough literature on this subject so that she was able to proceed "on her own" in quest of the invading organisms; and (3) knew how to preserve and mount the mites when found, this mite would in all probability not have been located, and the difficulties experienced would never have been attributed to their real cause. It is quite possible that the mite Dermatophagoides infests humans more often than anyone has known, but that its attacks are usually of a minor order, so that the itching and other annoyances caused by its presence may be attributed by the human host to (1) "imagination," as the doctors would have us believe; (2) "summer heat," since the mites are most active during hot weather; or perhaps (3) "dandruff." A wide-open field exists for anyone enterprising enough to do some real investigation on this subject.

The presence of the mite Bdellonyssus sylvarium as a causative agent of dermatitis in the human scalp and on the human body is likewise reported. At last reports, the unfortunate host of this mite was still suffering from its depredations. In this case, the diagnosis has been: "Just a phobia." Here is another field in which to date there has been no competition in the matter of studying the mite as an occasional human parasite.