The first case of human otoacariasis in Cyprus

Abstract

Otoacariasis is the ear canal infestation by the arthropod Subclass: Acari, usually ticks or mites. It is a common complaint seen in animals. However, there are relatively few documented cases of human otoacariasis. In August 2019, a physically healthy 53-year-old Cypriot man visited Near East University hospital complaining of a blockage, partial deafness, and minor pruritis in his left ear. During the examination of the patient, a mite infestation of his left external auditory canal (EAC) was determined. The mites were removed from the EAC and sent to the laboratory for identification. The mite samples were viewed under Olympus-CX31 light microscopy and identified as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. The patient was treated with Permethrin (cream), Xylocaine spray, dilute acetic acid (vinegar), and three ear canal aspirations. After three days, the patient’s ear was re-examined, and the number of mites had greatly decreased within the EAC. Follow up consultations confirmed the eradication of the mite infestation. This is the first case report of human otoacariasis from Cyprus.