Human scabies is one of the most common dermatological conditions in the world with over 200 million individuals impacted by the condition at any given time.
What is scabies?
Scabies is a parasitic infection caused by very small mites who burrow in human skin. Scabies may become a complicated situation and end in bacterial infections amongst other serious health conditions for the parasites host. Mites burrow in the top two layers of skin and lay eggs and the eggs then hatch within days. Patients typically present with an intense itch or rash within four weeks of the mites infesting their skin.
What are the symptoms of scabies?
The most common symptom of scabies is itch or intense itch known as pruritis. The itch is caused by an allergic reaction in the body to the mites and their fecal matter. The itching can occur at any location on the body, but most common locations range from fingers, wrists, elbows, genitals, buttocks, breasts, back, waist, and shoulder blades. Sometimes a rash may be present or a pimple like growth. Usually, the mites are not seen by the naked eye although their tunnels can be seen occasionally on the human body. Usually there are no more than 10-15 mites on a host at any given time.
How is scabies diagnosed?
Scabies is generally diagnosed via presentation of itch and rash and/or the presence of any burrows. Skin scrapings are often done to help diagnose scabies but many times the mites have left their host by the time symptoms are evaluated so skin scrapings can be inconclusive. Scabies is highly contagious and hygiene and treatment of others who have likely been exposed can be extremely beneficial in controlling an outbreak.
How is scabies treated?
Scabies is treated with a topical scabicide like 5% permethrin. Oral ivermectin is also efficient in treating the condition. The itch may intensify during treatment but should resolve after 1- 2 weeks. Sometimes treatment may need to be repeated to be effective and often times this includes treating all exposed parties.
Who is at risk most for scabies?
Young children and the elderly are at the highest risk for scabies and complications like infections. Individuals who live in group homes or in a shared community setting are also more commonly at risk of exposure due to close proximity of living spaces and shared everyday items like furniture since the mites can spread via contact of human skin or things like clothing and furniture. Individuals may not know they have scabies due to being asymptomatic for 4-8 weeks and scabies can spread to others during this time.
How to be proactive in regard to scabies:
While scabies can infest people and things well before symptoms arise it can be hard to 100% prevent them. The most important thing anyone can do if he or she has an ongoing itch or rash is to call your dermatologist for evaluation. During this time practice good hygiene by cleaning your home and washing your laundry and clothing regularly and with hot water and hot dryer cycles.
I think I have scabies. What do I do now?
If you live in a group home let your administrator or nurse manager know immediately and ensure your dermatologist is called and available for evaluations as soon as possible. Your dermatology provider will need to evaluate your skin and symptoms and if scabies is suspected and/or confirmed your scabies treatment will begin immediately. This will likely include a topical prescription like permethrin and a possible prescription of Ivermectin. Your provider will ensure your care plan is acceptable for your personal health needs. There is a good chance your roommates or individuals you share a home with will need to be evaluated and treated as well. Sometimes patients must be treated more than once to relieve the condition. When possible, thoroughly sanitize your space. If you live in a group home your site managers will need to help sanitize your space and any shared spaces to ensure the outbreak is being controlled.
Scabies is a contagious condition that can be a real itchy situation. If you are experiencing itch or pain, it is very important you contact your dermatologist for a skin evaluation.
Want to learn even more about scabies? Visit the sites below:
Statewide Dermatology 