Blog

Scabies is a skin infestation that is caused by sarcopticscabei which is a microscopic mite that infects the skins and spreads rapidly too many parts of the body. These mites reproduce on the infected skin and then burrow on the skin to lay eggs. Unless treated the infestation can spread rapidly. Scabies causes itchy red rashes to form on the skin. It is a highly contagious infestation that can pass through touch or contact from person to person. It may also be transmitted through infested bed sheets and garments and intimate contacts.

Scabies causes intense itching and red patches on the skin and is quite troublesome. Treatment of scabies consists medication both oral and topical. The medication is directed to kill scabies mite and its eggs. Dermatologists recommend treatment of entire group of people who are in contact with the person/persons who are infected with scabies. Scabies mites can survive only up to 72 hours without human contact so spreading from things that could be infected like bed linen is less likely, but mites can live up to two months when it comes into human contact. Once a person is infected by the mites it takes three to six weeks for scabies rashes to appear on the skin after initial infestation.

Pets like dogs and cats also have scabies but it is different from human scabies, it is called Mange. It can come into human contact but since it cannot thrive on human skin it dies on its own. But animal scabies can cause irritation and fur damage in pets and need immediate attention and treatment.

Symptoms of scabies is itching which becomes more intense at night. It can appear on any part of the body but most commonly it infects, wrists, elbows, armpits, finger skin, toes and nails, nipples and penis. Infants can have scabies on their head, face, palms and soles. Scabies look like small red bumps on the skin. It may become crusty. These bumps may also be along with burrows which are grey or red lines that radiate from bumps. These look like stretch marks.

Scabies are diagnosed by dermatologists by physical examination of lesions and by some tests conducted on the skin. Dermoscopy is a test through which skin is examined closely under microscope to look for mites. Another test is adhesive tape test in which dermatologist uses strong adhesive tape applied to skin bumps and then pulled off to view it under microscope to look for mites. To treat scabies, it is always advisable to consult a dermatologist. He must examine and prescribe proper treatment. Don't have over the counter creams as it may not be suited for the scabies treatment. Doctors give topical creams such as Emilite for direct application on the infected skin as well as to the other areas of the body to include all body area to prevent further infection. It is left overnight and then washed off after about 12 hours. A second application is also done after a week or two. Crotamiton, lindane, sulphur ointment and benzyl benzoate creams and lotions are also recommended but your dermatologist will prescribe you the specific cream/lotion suited to your skin infection. Oral ivermectin may be used in some cases where scabies has spread in a large part of the body or in hospitals to prevent large outbreak of the disease. But considering it side effects this medicine is not used as a first line of treatment of scabies.

Some precautions for prevention of scabies:

Scabies spread can be controlled by washing linens and clothing in hot water or get them dry cleaned. It should be ensured that those who are in frequent contact of the infected are also treated. The finger nails and toe nails should be trimmed and kept clean. Scratching of bumps of scabies should be avoided. Thoroughly clean the furniture, interiors, car upholstery and carpets by a vacuum cleaner and dispose the dirt. People with compromised immune systems are more prone to scabies so more stringent preventive measures are to be use to stop the spread of scabies among these people.