Sarcoptes scabiei is a microscopic mite that causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation. The female mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin to lay eggs, triggering an intense allergic reaction. Scabies spreads easily through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, making outbreaks common in crowded environments, such as nursing homes, schools, and prisons. Sharing personal items like clothing or bedding can also facilitate transmission.
The hallmark symptom of scabies is intense itching, which worsens at night, along with a pimple-like rash, often found in the webbing between the fingers, on wrists, elbows, and around the waist. In severe or untreated cases, the constant scratching can cause open sores, leading to secondary bacterial infections. A more severe form called crusted scabies can develop in immunocompromised individuals, resulting in thick, scaly lesions.
Treatment involves the use of prescription creams or lotions, such as permethrin or ivermectin, which are applied to the entire body to kill the mites and their eggs. All close contacts of the infected individual must also be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Bedding, clothing, and personal items need to be washed in hot water or sealed in plastic bags for several days to eliminate any remaining mites. Early treatment and hygiene measures are essential to controlling outbreaks and reducing discomfort caused by scabies.
