Scabies Definition Symptoms Treatment And Prevention

Definition:

Scabies is a contagious skin infection that occurs among humans and other animals. It has been classified by the WHO as a water-related disease. It is caused by a tiny and usually not directly visible parasite, the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, which burrows under the host's skin, causing intense allergic itching. The infection in animals is called sarcoptic mange.

The disease may be transmitted from objects but is most often transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact, with a higher risk with prolonged contact  It can also be spread through contact with other objects, such as clothing, bedding, furniture, or surfaces with which a person infected with scabies might have come in contact.  As with lice, scabies can be transmitted through sexual intercourse.Typically appear in-on the elbows,round the nipples,near the genitals,in-between the fingers and toes,the axillae ,ankles,groin etc.

Symptoms:

• Mite tunnels 

 These may be seen on the skin as fine, dark, or silvery lines about 2-10 mm long. They most commonly occur in the loose skin between the fingers ,the inner surface of the wrists, and the hands. 

• Itching.

 This is often severe and tends to be in one place at first  and then spreads to other areas. The itch is generally worse at night and after a hot bath.

• Rash 

 The rash usually appears soon after the itch starts. It is typically a blotchy, lumpy red rash that can appear anywhere on the body. The rash is often most obvious on the inside of the thighs, parts of the abdomen and buttocks, armpits, and around the nipples in women. The appearance of the rash is often typical. However, some people develop unusual rashes which may be confused with other skin conditions.

• Scratching

 Scratching due to intense itching can cause minor skin damage. In some cases the damaged skin becomes infected by bacteria - a secondary skin infection. If skin becomes infected with bacteria it becomes red, inflamed, hot, and tender.

• Aggravation of pre-existing skin conditions

 Scabies can worsen the symptoms of other skin conditions, particularly itchy skin problems such as eczema, or problems such as psoriasis. Scabies can be more difficult to diagnose in these situations.

Treatment:

• Permethrin

Permethrin is the most effective treatment for scabies.  It is applied from the neck down usually before bed time and left on for about eight to fourteen hours, then showered off in the morning. One application is normally sufficient for mild infections. For moderate to severe cases, another dose is applied seven to fourteen days later.Permethrin causes slight irritation of the skin, but the sensation is tolerable.

• Ivermectin

Ivermectin is an oral medication. It is effective in eradicating scabies. Ivermectin  is a single dose. It is the treatment of choice for crusted scabies and is often used in combination with a topical agent.It has not been tested on infants and is not recommended for children under six years of age.

• Others

Other treatments include lindane, benzyl benzoate, crotamiton, malathion, and sulfur preparations.

 Prevention

• The first thing is Hygiene. Ensure that one follows the practices of good hygiene. One should always wash the body properly and bathe daily. Use of clean towels and napkins and washing hands with hand wash or soap is recommended.
• Do not wear clothes that have been worn by other people. Do not share your clothes with other people.
• Ensure that you avoid physical contact with people who have been diagnosed with scabies.