Scabies Flashcards
What is scabies caused by?
The mite sarcoptes scabiei
How can scabies be spread?
Direct contact (prolonged skin contact)
Who is typically affected by scabies?
Children and young adults.
How does scabies occur?
Scabies mite burrows into the skin, laying its eggs in the stratum corneum.
What type of reaction is scabies?
Delayed-type 4 hypersensitivity reaction to mites/eggs
When do the symptoms of scabies occur after the infection?
30 days after the initial infection
Whatis the initial presenting feature of scabies?
An intensely itchy rash that usually affects the inter-web spaces, flexures of the wrist, axillae, abdomen and groin
Rash
When does the itch tend to be worse?
Classically worse at night.
How does the rash of scabies typically present?
Papular or vesicular and superficial burrows may often be seen.
What is the first line management of scabies?
Permethrin 5%
Who should also be given treatment for scabies?
All household and close physical contacts should be treated at the same time, even if asymptomatic
