DEMODEX FOLLICULORUM Meaning and
Definition
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Demodex folliculorum refers to a microscopic, worm-like arachnid that dwells within the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of humans. It is commonly known as follicle mite. These mites are part of the Demodex genus, which encompasses several species, with Demodex folliculorum being the most prevalent. They belong to the class Arachnida and are relatives of spiders and ticks.
These mites are usually harmless and are found in the hair follicles of most individuals, especially in the facial region, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, and nose. They are typically translucent, measuring about 0.1-0.4 millimeters in length, and have eight short legs. The mites feed on dead skin cells and natural oils secreted by the sebaceous glands. They reproduce and complete their life cycle within the hair follicle.
While Demodex folliculorum is considered normal inhabitants of the human skin, their numbers can increase and cause various skin conditions in certain cases. Excessive Mite infestation, or demodicosis, may lead to symptoms like itching, redness, and inflammation. These conditions are commonly associated with weakened immune systems or underlying skin disorders. Treatment options for demodicosis involve topical or oral medications, especially those targeting the mites directly.
In conclusion, Demodex folliculorum refers to a type of microscopic mite that naturally resides in human hair follicles and sebaceous glands. While generally harmless, excessive infestation may lead to skin conditions requiring medical intervention.
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A minute parasite inhabiting the hair-follicles and ducts of the sebaceous glands; it seldom causes any irritation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DEMODEX FOLLICULORUM
- semodex folliculorum
- xemodex folliculorum
- cemodex folliculorum
- femodex folliculorum
- remodex folliculorum
- eemodex folliculorum
- dwmodex folliculorum
- dsmodex folliculorum
- ddmodex folliculorum
- drmodex folliculorum
- d4modex folliculorum
- d3modex folliculorum
- denodex folliculorum
- dekodex folliculorum
- dejodex folliculorum
- demidex folliculorum
- demkdex folliculorum
- demldex folliculorum
- dempdex folliculorum
- dem0dex folliculorum
Etymology of DEMODEX FOLLICULORUM
The term "Demodex folliculorum" has its origins in Greek.
- "Demodex" is derived from the Greek words "demos", meaning "fat" or "fatness", and "dex", meaning "worm" or "parasite". Therefore, "Demodex" translates to "fat worm" or "fat parasite". This name refers to the microscopic nature of the mite and its presence in the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of humans and animals.
- "Folliculorum" is the genitive plural form of "folliculus", a Latin word, meaning "small sac" or "small bag". It refers to the hair follicles, which are the dwelling place of the Demodex mites. This component of the term denotes the mite's habitat or association with hair follicles.
