Department of Dermatology, University of Leipzig, Germany. baib@vz.uni-leipzig.de
Demodex mites are common commensals of the pilosebaceous unit in mammals. In humans, only two species (Demodex folliculorum and D. brevis) have been identified and have been implied to play a role in at least three facial conditions: pityriasis folliculorum, rosacea-like demodicidosis and so-called "demodicidosis gravis". However, there is no consensus to what degree the mites are causative of the skin pathology and how they might contribute to the disease. This review presents a demodicidosis case, discusses the clinical features of Demodex infestation in man and reviews its pathogenetic implications and the therapeutic options.