Just the sound of the word "scabies" can send chills up your spine. Scabies is an infestation of the skin caused by the microscopic mite "Sarcoptes scabei". This tiny mite can be found worldwide and affects people of all races and social classes. Scabies has bothered people for thousands of years and seems to come and go in cycles. It is thought that less than 1% of the population has it.

Signs and symptoms of scabies infestation are readily observable, but can mimic other less serious conditions, so it is best to consult your physician if you experience any, or all of the following:

Pimple-like irritations, rash or burrows of the skin, especially between the fingers; on the wrists, elbow, or knee; the breast, penis, or shoulder blades.
Intense itching, especially at night, over most of the body.
Sores caused by scratching, that sometimes become infected with bacteria.

Scabies is usually contracted by direct, skin-to-skin contact with an already infested person. Fortunately, contact generally must be prolonged; handshaking or a quick hug usually is insufficient for the mite to spread. The mite, once away from the human body, usually cannot survive for more than 48-72 hours. Sexual partners and household members present a high risk of spreading the infestation. Sharing clothing, towels, and bedding can spread scabies.

Parents with small children in daycare or nursery school should check their child for any of the symptoms mentioned above, paying special attention to warmer sites on the skin. Check between the fingers, the bend of the elbow, under the arms, the wrist, buttocks, or belt line. Children rarely have the prolonged contact needed with an infected person to acquire the mite, but regular checks are prudent.

A more severe form of scabies, called Norwegian or crusted scabies, can infest the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Persons with this form spread scabies more easily.

If a person has had scabies before, symptoms can appear within several days of exposure. Typically, it takes from 4-6 weeks for symptoms to begin in persons exposed for the first time.

Scabies is treated with prescription creams and lotions. A milder medication, such as 5% permethrin cream, is usually prescribed for children, or women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Always be sure to follow your physician's instructions carefully.

The medication must be applied from the neck down to the toes. After leaving it on for the recommended time, it can be washed off. All clothes, bedding, and towels used within three days before treatment will need to be washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer. A second treatment of the body may be necessary. Your health care provider will determine if everyone in the family needs to be treated.

Itching can continue for up to three weeks, but does not mean you are still infested. Benadryl, or hydrocortisone creams can help relieve the itching. It is important to note that these itch relievers shouldn't be used until after diagnosis, since they can mask the symptoms and delay treatment.

Learn more about this author, Albert Aunchman.
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