| An extreme and irrational fear of small crawling organisms, such as mites and ticks which often stems from concerns about diseases they might carry or the possibility of infestation. This phobia escalates to an irrational level, causing individuals to become excessively anxious about these creatures even in environments where the risk is minimal. The condition is sufficiently severe to result in significant distress or significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning. |
