Scabies Flashcards
SCABIES
• Caused by the parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei
• Burrows into the epidermis causing intense itching
• Highly contagious spread through close contact and shared clothing
• Female mite burrows into the skin laying up to three eggs as she travels
• Eggs hatch in 3 to 4 days and mature in 10 to 14 days
• Lifespan of 15 to 30 days
• Physical exam
– Characteristics lesion with S-Shaped burrows on the webs of fingers and signs on hands, fold of
wrist or armpits, beltline, buttocks, or genitalia
– Vesiculopustular lesions are found in infants and young children
– Secondary lesions include itchy papules, red-brown nodules, crusting, and excoriations
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DIAGNOSIS
• Microscopic examination of scraping from an unhatched burrow in saline or mineral oil • Burrow ink test
– Apply a drop of ink of rub a washable felt tipped pen across a suspected burrow. – Wipe of the excess ink and examine under a microscope
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MANAGEMENT
• Permethrin 5% cream- can be used in children as young as 2 months – Apply a thin layer of cream on the entire body from the neck down
– Rinse after 8 to 14 hours
– Reapply if needed in 1 week
• Antihistamines or topical 1 % hydrocortisone for itching which can last several weeks after treatment
• Simultaneous treatment of close contacts
• Wash all linens and clothing in hot water and hot dryer for at least 20 minutes
• Vacuum
• Store non washable items in a plastic container for a minimum of 1 week
• May return to school 24 hours after treatment
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