Y5 - Cutaneous parasitic infection (incl. scabies, lice) Flashcards
def of scabies
infestation of ectoparasite sarcoptes scabiei into the stratum corneum
how is scabies spread
direct contact with another individual with scabies
what are common clues in scabies diagnosis
intense pruritis and linear erythematous burrows at extremities
and erythematous papules in the axilla or genital area
epi of scabies
v common
children and elderly
when is scabies most common
winter
-due to increased crowding and prolonged survival of mites
what ectoparisite causes scabies
sarcoptes scabiei variety hominis
aetiology of scabies
parasite burrows into the stratum corneum following skin to skin contact, or transmission via shared clothing
is scabies contagious
highly contagious
signs and symptoms of scabies
in infants/children/elderly
Hx of overcrowding, itching in family members
itching which is worse at night
burrows
-wavy thread like whitish grey lines on the skin surface
what test is used for scabies
ink burrow test
-ink is wiped away and reveals a linear burrow
investigations of scabies
ectoparasite preparation
-presence of mites, eggs, faecal material
management of scabies non-pregnant/non-lactating adults or children
permethrin/ivermectin
management of children <5yrs and pregnant or lactating females
permethrin
management for babies <2months
sulfur 6% in pretroleum
complications of scabies
post-scabetic pruritis
-occurs as a reaction to mites, eggs, or faeces even after treatment
secondary infection
-strep/staph
prognosis of scabies
good
usually cured after two treatments (permethrin or ivermectin
what is head lice also known as
pediculosis capitis
what is the head louse called
pediculus humanus capitis
epi of head lice
common in children
aetiology
spread by direct head to head contact
what do nits refer to
empty egg casings of lice
what causes the itching in lice
they inject small amounts of saliva into the scalp to take blood to feed on
allergic reaction to the saliva causes itching
signs and symptoms of lice
RFs (children, overcrowding)
itchy scalp
finding live adult louse or eggs
is it more common in males or females (louse)
females - longer hair
investigations
clinical diagnosis
management for children <2 months
mechanical removal
management for children >2months and adults
pediculicide
-dimeticone topical
-permethrin topical
and treat close contacts
complications
itching of scalp causing sleep disturbance
impetigo rarely
prognosis
2-4 cycles is required to kill all hatching nymphs
good prognosis
