Scientific Testing - Exploring Mite Involvement in Chronic Health & Skin Issues

Disclaimer: This article reflects personal observations and is not intended as medical or veterinary advice. Claims about mites and health conditions are based on limited studies and personal experiences, not definitive evidence or proven causation. These observations are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease, and individual results may vary. The author has no affiliation with any testing services, including Research Associates Laboratory (VetDNA.com), and receives no compensation for mentioning them. Always consult licensed medical or veterinary professionals for diagnosis and treatment.

Exploring Mite-Related Concerns: A Personal Perspective

Certain laboratories offer DNA testing, such as PCR-based methods, which may help identify mites and what they may be carrying in samples. For instance, Research Associates Laboratory (VetDNA.com) provides such services, though it is one of several options available—readers should explore multiple providers. Please contact medical professionals; they may already have this testing available for you.

Possible Associations Between Mites and Health Conditions 

Some limited studies and sources suggest possible associations between mites (such as dust/house mites or Demodex) and certain conditions:

• Hair loss (Pearce)
• Asthma  (Senior-Fletcher) (American Lung Association)
• Increased Alzheimer’s pathology-mouse model  (Sahu et. al)
• Sinus issues (Mayo)
• Ear Issues (HouseDustMite.com) (Ramasamy)
• Acne Vulgaris, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Rosacea  (Karabay et. al)
• Eye problems (Xdemvy)
• Urinary Issues (Dini et. al)
• Mange in animals (Dryden)
• Demodicosis in Humans "Rosacea, an infectious disease: why rosacea with papulopustules should be considered a demodicosis. A Narrative review" (Forton)

A Personal Connection: The Impact on Our Family

Our family has experienced various health concerns, including skin, urinary, eye, and neurological symptoms. We have considered whether microscopic mite exposure might play a role, but we are not medical professionals, and further research is necessary to establish any connection. In 2019, my mother and I shared numerous photos of my father’s skin condition with a major university to seek clarity on his health issues. We suggested to the neurologist that his skin and cognitive symptoms might be related, but they noted their focus was neurology, not dermatology. At that appointment, he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, also called Parkinson’s with dementia, depending on the onset of symptoms. We informed dermatologists about his skin issues and our suspicion of being bitten by microscopic mites, but no DNA tests were conducted to confirm the presence of mites. I have documented these observations for years and shared them with Alzheimer’s and dementia researchers in December 2020 to encourage further study in hopes of helping my father. As a private family, we have refrained from publicly sharing this information and have instead contacted researchers across the world, not anticipating the lengthy timeline often required for scientific advancements.

In 2022, my father passed away. Interestingly, I learned about a skin biopsy test used to detect pre-cursors to Lewy bodies. Around the same time, a non-blood relative developed neurological symptoms following bites experienced while washing a dog with skin issues. Months later he developed severe sleep issues, dystonia and new and worsening tremors. Some family members also reported sensations of being bitten while bathing our dog. We conducted DNA tests on areas with similar skin symptoms in both humans and pets, which indicated the presence of Demodex mites. However, these findings are observational, and more research is needed to determine any causal relationship.

While conventional treatments may alleviate symptoms, they may not address underlying causes. This could potentially contribute to the increasing use of skin-related prescriptions and the prevalence of chronic conditions in both humans and pets. Further scientific investigation is essential to validate these observations. 

Our Beloved Dogs

Some pet owners, including ourselves, have noticed that certain flea and tick treatments seem less effective for our pets’ skin issues. More research is needed to understand why this might be happening.  

So, what isn’t being treated? From our experience, DNA tests that we have done  - DEMODEX MITES. From our experience, some flea and tick treatments may not fully address Demodex mites in dogs, potentially contributing to ongoing skin issues. Consult a veterinarian for appropriate treatment options.

What Can We Do?

Further exploration is needed into the potential role of mites in health issues for humans and pets. We encourage additional research to better understand any possible contributions to skin conditions or other concerns.

Take Action: 

If you’re concerned about skin conditions or other health issues in yourself or your pets, consult a licensed medical or veterinary professional for guidance. Sharing your experiences with them may help contribute to broader awareness and support scientific investigation into potential causes.