Scabies is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, which is a small mite. Scabies is considered a contagious skin disease because the mites are easily transferred from one person to another. Direct contact is usually required; however, scabies can be transmitted through indirect contact via personal items. Bedding and clothes can serve as a temporary home for mites for 2 to 3 days.
Itching
Severe itching is the most common sign of scabies. It might be worse at night or after taking a hot bath. The signs of scabies usually manifest within 4 to 6 weeks after exposure. During this incubation period, the female mite lays eggs under the skin at a rate of two to three per day. Within 10 to 21 days, the eggs hatch and the mites grow into adulthood. As more and more eggs hatch, the skin becomes extremely sensitive to the mites, which causes the itching. In a person who has had scabies before, the signs may become apparent in less than a week, because the body is already sensitized to the mites.
Rash
Scabies causes a rash of small red bumps. These may form blisters, or they may be pus-filled. When the rash is scratched, the blisters may break and ooze. The most common locations of scabies are different in children and adults. Generally, children are affected on the head, scalp, neck, trunk, shoulders, feet and hands. In adults, the most common locations are the webbing between the fingers or toes, the folds of the arms and legs, the genitals and the abdomen. While these locations are the most common, it is possible for scabies to affect any area of the body.
Other Signs
As the condition worsens, the affected skin may become thick and scaly. It may have scabs and scratch marks on it. It is possible for these scratch marks to become infected. Signs of an infection include redness near the area and a foul smell coming from the area. The area may feel warm to the touch and may be oozing pus. Keeping the area clean and covered are ways to minimize the risk of infection; however, if the area does become infected, a visit to the doctor is warranted.
