Scabies, Diagnosis, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Scabies is a parasitic infestation caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs, causing intense itching and a rash. Scabies can lead to skin sores and serious complications like septicaemia (a bloodstream infection), heart disease and kidney problems.
Dr. Nivedita24 Jul, 2024
Share
Scabies - Itch rash which is very contagious Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by a mite, Sarcoptes scabiei . It is a global disease affecting up to 300 million people annually. Those who live in poverty or overcrowded conditions are at a much higher risk of scabies. The risk is also higher in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. While scabies does not typically cause mortality, it can lead to secondary bacterial infections, stigmatization, depression, insomnia, and financial costs.
Visit - MedEd App
Read More - Pharyngeal Arches
Transmission and the Culprit
The culprit of scabies is an infestation with a mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, which is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact. Because the mite can only live away from human skin for a brief time, limited transmission occurs through fomites, such as clothing and bed linen. The female adult mite burrows into the epidermis, depositing eggs over several days. The larvae hatch in approximately two to four days and take around 10 to 14 days to mature into adult mites. The infected individual develops a hypersensitive reaction (exaggerated immune response) to the mite, its eggs, or its feces, which usually occurs approximately three weeks after the first exposure.Read More - Radiodiagnosis
Symptoms
The classic presentation of scabies includes burrows, erythematous papules, and generalized pruritus that is typically worse at night. Burrows are usually located between the fingers, in the flexure of the wrist, elbows, or armpits, or on the genitals or breasts; however, they can sometimes be difficult to find. In infants and elderly individuals, burrows may be found on the head and neck and can manifest as vesicles, pustules, or nodules. Read More - Pelvis and PerineumDiagnosis
The clinical diagnosis of scabies is usually based on a history of a pruritic rash that is typically worse at night and present in characteristic locations, especially with similar symptoms occurring in other household members. Although the presence of burrows often helps to establish the diagnosis, these are infrequently seen. Other ways to make a definitive diagnosis for scabies include:- Skin scraping: Scraping an oil-covered scalpel blade across a burrow and examining the sample microscopically.
- Burrow ink test: Covering a lesion with ink and removing it with alcohol leaves ink tracking in the burrows.
- Dermoscopy: Direct visualization of magnified skin. This option is not practical in many locations, especially remote communities.
Treatment
Treatment of scabies involves killing the mites and eggs with a medicated cream or pill. Lotion should be applied to the skin and left on for at least 8-14 hours.- Permethrin cream: A skin cream with chemicals that kill the mites and their eggs.
- Ivermectin (Stromectol): Taken as a pill to treat scabies when prescription lotions don’t work. It is often prescribed for people with crusted scabies or lowered immune systems.
Prevention
1.Avoid Close Contact:- Limit direct skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have scabies.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as clothing, towels, and bedding.
- Maintain good personal hygiene by bathing regularly.
- Change and wash clothing, bedding, and towels frequently in hot water.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have scabies.
- Follow the prescribed treatment regimen diligently to prevent the spread to
Visit - MedEd App
Scabies FAQs
What is the mechanism of Ivermectin?
Ivermectin works by binding to specific chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of the mites, leading to increased permeability of the cell membrane, hyperpolarization, paralysis, and death of the parasite.
Is scabies a STD?
Scabies is not classified as a sexually transmitted disease (STD), but it can be spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact.
Is scabies life-threatening?
Scabies is not typically life-threatening. However, severe infestations can lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections, which can be serious if left untreated.
Does scabies affect the whole family?
Yes, scabies can easily spread to the whole family through close contact and shared items. It is important for all household members to be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.
