|
|
Scabies
Alternate Names : Sarcoptes Scabiei
Definition Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by a very small mite.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Scabies is found worldwide among people of all groups and ages. It is spread by direct contact with infected individuals and less often by sharing clothing or bedding. Sometimes whole families are affected.
The mites that cause scabies burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs forming a characteristic burrow that looks like a pencil mark. Eggs mature in 21 days. The itchy rash is an allergic response to the mite.
Mites maybe more widespread on a baby's skin causing pimples over the trunk, or small blisters over the palms and soles. In young children, the head, neck, shoulders, palms, and soles are involved. In older children and adults, hands, wrists, genitals, and abdomen are involved.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Officials Still Seek Source of Salmonella Outbreak - Jan 09, 2009, 14:00
Almost 400 Americans in 42 states have been sickened. | • | Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 9, 2009 - Jan 09, 2009, 10:05
- Fungal Infections
- Post Menopause
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
| • | Americans Consuming More Sugary Beverages - Jan 09, 2009, 12:00
Adults gulping an average of 300 calories every day, study finds. | • | Garlic as a Cancer Fighter? Maybe Not - Jan 09, 2009, 16:00
Evidence that strong-smelling herb prevents cancer is said to be weak.
| • | Antipsychotics Up Death Risk in Alzheimer's Patients - Jan 09, 2009, 09:00
Long-term study says the drugs should only be used short-term, as last resort. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Scabies Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Scabies Symptoms & Signs
• Scabies Prevention
• Scabies Diagnosis & Tests
• Scabies Treatment
• Scabies Prognosis
• Scabies Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Acne
• Allergies
Other Topics
• Itching
• Rashes
• Vesicles
Review Date : 4/15/2003
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
