This simple test involves applying ink to the suspected area, followed by thorough cleaning of the stratum corneum with alcohol-ether. If a groove is present, it will fill with ink and will not be removed by cleaning. Using a scalpel blade, shavings of the stratum corneum are cut tangentially to the surface, without causing bleeding. These are placed on a slide in physiological saline and covered with a coverslip. They are observed under a low-power microscope. The mite is easily recognizable; if it is not found, the presence of eggs has the same diagnostic significance. Examination of the groove with a dermoscope makes it easy to see the mite, but more difficult to see the eggs.
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