Transcript Sarcoptes scabiei

Scabies Control
Scabies Description
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Contagious infestation of the skin
Caused by human mites (Sarcoptes
scabiei subsp. hominis)
Distributed worldwide
Reported incidence increasing in US
since 1970’s
Humans are the reservoir
Scabies Transmission
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Direct, prolonged, skin–to-skin contact
Sexual contact
Household contact
Indirect transfer from clothing, towels and
bedding, only if contaminated immediately
before contact
Communicable
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while infested and untreated
during incubation period
Scabies Symptoms
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Symptoms caused by reaction to mites
Pimple-like rash or burrows between fingers,
on wrist, elbows, armpits, belt line, navel,
abdomen, and/or buttocks
Intense itching over most of the body,
especially at night
Sores on the body caused by scratching
Incubation period:
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2-6 weeks without previous exposure
1-4 days after re-infestation (usually milder)
Scabies Diagnosis
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Confirmed by skin
scrapings of papules
or intact burrows
Burrows and mites
may be few in
number (only 10-12)
and difficult to find
Scabies Treatment
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Applicaton of scabicide over entire body
below head:
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5% permethrin cream (wash after 8-14 hrs)
1% lindane cream (wash after 8-12 hrs)
Ivermectin, single dose, orally
Itching may continue for several weeks
despite successful treatment
In ~5% of cases, 2nd treatment may be
necessary after 7-10 days.
Scabies Control
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Prompt diagnosis and treatment of patients
Simultaneous, prophylactic therapy:
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household members,
sexual contacts, and
caregivers with prolonged skin-to skin contact
Launder all clothing worn within 48-72 hrs. of
treatment in hot water and dry in hot dryer
Thorough vacuuming of carpets and upholstered
furniture