CCDM: TOPIC SCABIES Flashcards
DONT GET SCABIES (Sarcoptic itch, Acariasis)
Identification:
A parasitic infestation of the skin caused by a mite
whose penetration is visible as papules, vesicles or tiny linear burrows containing the mites and their eggs
When scabies is complicated by beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection what is there a risk of?
acute glomerulonephritis.
How is diagnosis established?
By recovering the mite from its burrow
and identifying it microscopically.
Etiologic agent?
Sarcoptes scabiei, a mite
Reservoir
Humans; Sarcoptes species and other animal mites can live on humans but do not reproduce on them
Mode of transmission
Transfer of parasites commonly occurs
through prolonged direct contact with infested skin and also during sexual contact. Transfer from undergarments and bedclothes occurs only if these
have been contaminated by infested people immediately beforehand
How long does it take mites to burow beneath the skin?
2.5 minutes
Why are persons with the Norwegian scabies syndrome highly contagious?
Because of the large number of mites present in the exfoliating scales.
Incubation periods
People without previous exposure, 2–6 weeks before onset of itching and previously infested develop symptoms 1–4 days after reexposure.
Period of communicability
Until mites and eggs are destroyed by treatment, ordinarily after 1 or occasionally 2 courses of treatment, a week apart.
Methods of control
Exclude infested individuals from school or work
until the day after treatment. For hospitalized patients,
contact isolation for 24 hours after start of effective treatment.
Concurrent disinfestation:
Laundering underwear, clothing and bedsheets worn or used by the patient in the 48 hours prior to treatment, using hot cycles of both washer and
dryer, will kill mites and eggs but may not be needed for most infestations.
Specific treatment:
treatment of choice for children is topical 5%permethrin.
