Human otoacariasis: Demographic and clinical outcomes in patients with ear-canal ticks and a review of literature

INTRODUCTION: Otoacariasis is a rare infestation of the ear canal, which affects the quality of life especially in rural areas. Different types of ticks and mites may cause otoacariasis. Although treatment of otoacariasis is simple, diseases transmitted through ticks and mites should be considered during diagnosis and treatment. Both local and systemic signs and symptoms of such diseases should be followed up. A literature review was conducted in PubMed using the following terms: “otoacariasis,” “ticks,” “mites,” and “outer ear canal infestations.” Demographic, radiologic, and treatment options were discussed. Treatment hints and pitfalls were also discussed with the literature review. CONCLUSION: In this paper, we describe otoacariasis in humans and discuss the appropriate interventions.