A review on trombiculiasis: An underreported parasitosis that affects humans and animals, including world distribution, clinical findings, associated pathogens, prophylaxis and identification methods

Abstract

Chigger mites comprise three families: Trombiculidae, Leeuwenhoekiidae and Walchiidae, with over 3,000 species worldwide. Their life cycle includes six stages, and the larvae are parasites, while the other stages are free-living predators. Once attached to a host, the larvae spend several days feeding on the host's epithelial tissue, forming the stylostome. An inflammatory reaction can be formed during larval feeding, known as trombiculiasis or trombiculosis. In this study, we provide a literature review using 123 scientific articles on the cases of trombiculiasis in animals and humans reported in different biogeographical regions, including 29 countries and 30 different chigger species, with all the information compiled in the Supplementary material. This review aims to increase the visibility of this disease and group of mites, so that physicians and veterinarians can become more aware of the disease and include the causative agent in differential diagnoses. We also offer knowledge on mounting and control methods in order to improve mite identification for future research. Lastly, the prophylaxis and control methods in cases of infestations and associated pathogens are mentioned.