What is Scabies?
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The intense itching occurs where the mite burrows. It is highly contagious and spreads quickly through close physical contact.
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The intense itching occurs where the mite burrows. It is highly contagious and spreads quickly through close physical contact.
Doctors often recommend treatment for entire families or contact groups to eliminate the mite. While medications kill the mites quickly, itching may persist for weeks.
Symptoms
The hallmark signs are severe itching (worse at night) and thin, irregular burrow tracks made of tiny blisters.
Where does it appear?
In Adults:
- Between fingers.
- Armpits and Waist.
- Inside wrists and elbows.
- Soles of the feet.
- Around breasts and male genital area.
- Buttocks and knees.
In Children:
- Scalp.
- Face and Neck.
- Palms of the hands.
- Soles of the feet.
⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Many skin conditions (like eczema) cause itching. See a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. Bathing and over-the-counter lotions will not cure scabies; prescription medication is required.
Many skin conditions (like eczema) cause itching. See a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. Bathing and over-the-counter lotions will not cure scabies; prescription medication is required.
Causes: The Mite
The eight-legged mite is microscopic. Here is how it infects the host:
[Image of Sarcoptes scabiei life cycle]- Burrowing: The female mite burrows just beneath the skin to create a tunnel.
- Laying Eggs: She deposits eggs in the tunnel.
- Hatching: Eggs hatch in 3-4 days, and larvae move to the skin surface to mature.
- Spreading: They can then spread to other areas of your skin or to other people.
The itching is actually an allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and their waste.
Complications
- Secondary Infection (Impetigo): Vigorous scratching can break the skin, allowing staph or strep bacteria to enter.
- Crusted Scabies (Norwegian Scabies): A severe form affecting people with weakened immune systems (HIV, Leukemia) or the elderly. It causes thick crusts containing thousands of mites and eggs. It is extremely contagious and harder to treat.
Diagnosis
Doctors examine the skin for characteristic burrows. They may perform a Skin Scraping test: scraping a small area of skin to examine under a microscope for mites or eggs.
Treatment
Treatment involves eliminating the infestation with prescription creams or pills.
How to Apply Cream:
You usually apply the medication over your entire body, from your neck down to your toes, and leave it on for at least 8 hours (often overnight). A second treatment is usually needed a week later.
You usually apply the medication over your entire body, from your neck down to your toes, and leave it on for at least 8 hours (often overnight). A second treatment is usually needed a week later.
Common Medications
- Permethrin Cream (5%): Safe for adults and children (even pregnant women). Kills mites and eggs.
- Lindane: Available as lotion or shampoo. Note: Not safe for young children or pregnant women.
- Crotamiton (Eurax): Often used for babies. Applied once a day for 2-5 days.
- Ivermectin (Stromectol): An oral pill used for people with altered immune systems or crusted scabies who don't respond to creams.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.
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