The Diagnosis and Management of Scabies
Common Characteristics of Scabies
Not to be confused with the standard “Bed Bug” that reproduces outside of the skin, scabies is a common skin infestation in which the mites reproduce underneath the skin surface. The infestation is usually spread by skin-skin contact leading to symptoms of itchiness, redness, and rashes at the source.
According to the World Health Organization, scabies is among the most common dermatological skin conditions reported globally. It is particularly prominent in developing nations though apparent in Western countries as well, impacting approximately 200 million individuals annually.
This skin condition is mediated through microscopic organisms known as Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis. These organisms tunnel into the skin and lay eggs and reproduce at alarming rates. Scabies can result in mild and severe itch, redness, and embarrassing rashes, typically on the upper and lower limbs and the waist area. The itch tends to worsen at night due to the increased activity of the mites.
Common Causes and Symptoms
The infestation of this human itch mite occurs in situations and circumstances that enable the simple spread of the mites from person to person.
These situations and circumstances include individuals making physical contact, sharing clothing, or sharing bedding with another individual who has scabies. The transmission can be between sexual partners as well as from family members who happen to sleep in the same area. Contrary to popular belief, physical contact with animals infested by such mites isn’t of risk to humans; only human-to-human contact is of concern when it comes to scabies.
The typical lesions seen in cases of scabies include red papules, and sometimes small lines can be identified on the skin, which are representative of the mite burrowing activity. The locations of the skin eruptions and rash from scabies are the webs of the fingers, wrists, elbow regions, genitalia, and buttocks.
When the symptoms of skin itchiness and discomfort, redness, and rashes are identified, individuals should seek immediate treatment to both relieve symptoms and treat the infestation.
Treatment, Management, and Prevention
Prevention of scabies requires avoidance of the circumstances of unclean conditions and being careful about sexual contacts.
Similarly, practicing proper hygiene and cleanliness is also a proactive approach to preventing the spread of scabies and other skin infestations.
Should an individual come in contact with another and contract scabies, treatment options are available to eliminate these mites. In addition, some other options are available for temperate management of symptoms.
Treatments for scabies typically include topical ointments and creams, as well as other oral medications available only via a prescription.
Such treatment medications include:
• Permethrin Topical Ointment
• Sulfur Cream
• Oral Ivermectin
Note that while all of the aforementioned treatment options are effective in curing scabies, it may take some time to experience complete relief from the itch from the condition.
Final Thoughts
Proactive treatment can change an embarrassing condition from lasting several weeks to only a few short days. Luckily this condition can be treated and cured in a timely manner.