The skin infection scabies is characterized by a rash. According to FamilyDoctor.org, scabies is a common problem where small mites burrow under the surface of the skin, creating itchy bumps and blisters. The Mayo Clinic states the scientific name for this mite is Sarcoptes scabiei. A scabies rash is considered extremely contagious, but treatments can easily alleviate the problem.
Symptoms
According to FamilyDoctor.org, the small burrows created by Sarcoptes scabiei make a short, wavy, red or dark rash on the surface of the skin. The affected areas may look and feel bumpy. The Mayo Clinic notes that the rash becomes more irritating at night. In adults, scabies group in skin folds such as under the arm, around the waist, at the inner elbow, soles of the feet, breasts, male genitals, buttocks, knees and shoulder blades. The mites tend to infect children in areas such as the scalp, face, neck, hands and soles of the feet.
Causes
The Mayo Clinic states that the female Sarcoptes scabiei or mite create the scabies rash. This eight-legged microscopic bug tunnels under the skin and lays eggs, then baby mites hatch 21 days later. These new mites crawl on the skin, causing an itchy and bothersome rash. Contact with an infected person, clothing or other contaminated material can spread the mites. Animals can also carry a species of scabies. This type of mite does not cause the same intense reaction in humans as Sarcoptes scabiei.
Complications
Scratching the rash can cause a secondary infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Impetigo, a bacterial infection, caused by staphylococci or streptococci bacteria, can result from intense scratching. Crusted scabies, a severe form of scabies infection, usually affects patients with poor immune systems such as those with HIV, leukemia and older people in long-term care facilities. This hard-to-treat scabies infection involves a scaly rash that covers large areas of the body.
Diagnosis
According to the Mayo Clinic, a health care provider diagnoses scabies by thoroughly examining the skin for signs of burrows. A skin scraping from the rash is then examined under a microscope to determine the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei and their eggs.
Treatment
FamilyDoctor.org notes that a health care professional must treat scabies. A medicated cream or lotion prescription will typically remedy the problem, but it needs to cover the entire body, not just the scabies rash. This medication must stay on for at least eight to 12 hours. A repeat treatment in one week will ensure that the scabies have died. The Mayo Clinic lists common medications as permethrin 5 percent, lindane and cortamiton. If the creams do not work or the patient has a poor immune system, prescription oral medications such as ivermectin may be needed.
Prevention
The Mayo Clinic suggests cleaning all linens and clothes with hot, soapy water and drying at high heat to prevent re-infestation. Place non-washable items in plastic bags for no less than two weeks to starve the mites.
