Changes

Diagnosis is suspected from history and physical examination. Microscopy of the mite is the definitive diagnosis. Biopsy and histopathology of skin lesions may be performed.

Diagnosis is suspected from history and physical examination. Microscopy of the mite is the definitive diagnosis. Biopsy and histopathology of skin lesions may be performed.

==Therapy==

==Therapy==

[[Acariasis]] is highly contagious and can be very difficult to eliminate.  There are various treatments but all must treat the environment as well as the host. Insecticides that have been advised include pyrethrins and pyrethroids, organophosphates and ivermectin. More recent treatments include the use of chitin disregulators such as lufenuron.  The treatments are discussed in detail below.

Acariasis is highly contagious and can be very difficult to eliminate.  There are various treatments but all must treat the environment as well as the host. Insecticides that have been advised include pyrethrins and pyrethroids, organophosphates and ivermectin. More recent treatments include the use of chitin disregulators such as lufenuron.  The treatments are discussed in detail below.

==Prevention==

==Prevention==

Acariasis is usually associated with poor hygiene or lack of quarantine for recent imports. Unfed mites can survive for prolonged periods of time under favourable environmental conditions so attention to hygiene is importance. Regular cleaning, preferably steam cleaning, of the environment is a must. New reptiles should be quarantined and prophylactic treatments carried out.  Prevention includes monitoring snake behaviour, close examination of the bottom and the water surface of water bowls. Also owners should check their own hands after handling  the snake.  Species that require humid surroundings (e.g., many tropical boids) are at high risk of mite infestation.

Acariasis is usually associated with poor hygiene or lack of quarantine for recent imports. Unfed mites can survive for prolonged periods of time under favourable environmental conditions so attention to hygiene is importance. Regular cleaning, preferably steam cleaning, of the environment is a must. New reptiles should be quarantined and prophylactic treatments carried out.  Prevention includes monitoring snake behaviour, close examination of the bottom and the water surface of water bowls. Also owners should check their own hands after handling  the snake.  Species that require humid surroundings (e.g., many tropical boids) are at high risk of mite infestation.