scabies Flashcards
what are scabies?
Scabies is an intensely itchy skin infestation caused by the human parasite Sarcoptes
scabiei
a 0.3- to 0.5-mm mite that burrows into the epidermis and tunnels through the
stratum corneum
what are the red flags warnings for scabies?
• Children under 2 months of age
o Treatment for children between 2 months and 2 years should occur under medical
supervision
what are the lifestyle advice for scabies?
- Bedding, clothing, and towels (including those of all potentially infested contacts) should be decontaminated by washing at a high temperature (at least 60°C) and drying in a hot dryer, or dry-cleaning, or by sealing in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours
- Do not have sex or close physical contact until you have completed the full course o treatment
what are the drug treatment options for scabies?
Permethrin 5% cream is first-line treatment, with malathion aqueous 0.5% if permethrin is
contraindicated or not tolerated (such as in people with allergy to chrysanthemum or other
ingredients in the preparation)
how should permethrin be used?
oThe product should usually be applied to the whole body from the chin and ears downwards paying special attention to the areas between the fingers and toes and under the nails. However, in people who are immunosuppressed, the very young, and elderly people, the insecticide should be applied to the whole body including the face and scalp
o Permethrin should be washed off after 8 to 12 hours, and malathion after 24 hours. Body areas that are washed within 8 hours of permethrin application or 24 hours of malathion application should be treated again
o Mittens can be used to prevent infants putting treated hands in their mouths
o A second application is required one week after the first
o All members of their household, their sexual partners within the past month, and
any other close personal contacts (even if asymptomatic) should also be treated. ▪ Referral to genito-urinary medicine (GUM) may be required for partner
notification
