Our Medical Experts
Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.
Find a DoctorDelhi/NCR:
MOHALI:
Dehradun:
BATHINDA:
BRAIN ATTACK:
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis mite. These mites burrow tunnels under the skin, resulting in red bumps and intense itching. Scabies spread easily, especially in crowded living conditions, making it crucial to evaluate all close contacts when even one person is diagnosed with the condition.
Although scabies is prevalent worldwide, it is more commonly found in tropical areas and densely populated regions. Animals can also be affected by different sets of mites, leading to a condition known as sarcoptic mange, which usually does not infect humans but may cause mild reactions or infections requiring careful diagnosis.
Scabies can manifest in various forms, including:
Common symptoms of scabies include:
Scabies typically affects skin folds, but they can appear on any part of the body. The specific affected areas vary depending on the age group:
Symptoms of scabies may appear within a few days of exposure in individuals with a history of the condition. For first-time infections, it may take up to six weeks for symptoms to become evident. Even asymptomatic individuals can spread scabies to others.
Scabies in humans is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis mite. While animals are also affected by different types of mites, scabies in animals, known as sarcoptic mange, typically do not infect humans. However, rare cases of transmission from animals to humans have been reported. Certain factors increase the risk of scabies:
Scabies in humans is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis mite. While animals are also affected by different types of mites, scabies in animals, known as sarcoptic mange, typically do not infect humans. However, rare cases of transmission from animals to humans have been reported. Certain factors increase the risk of scabies:
Diagnosing scabies involves a thorough examination of the skin, specifically looking for tunnels and burrows created by the mites. The patient's complete medical history is recorded, and symptoms are assessed. In some cases, a skin-scraping sample may be taken for microscopic examination to identify mites or eggs.
Scabies is a treatable condition aimed at eliminating the mites and their eggs. Treatment typically involves a combination of oral medications and topical creams. These prescription medications are not available over the counter. The healthcare provider may prescribe the following:
Although scabies medications act quickly to kill the mites, itching may persist for several weeks. In such cases, healthcare providers may prescribe additional skin care treatments to alleviate itching and provide relief for those who cannot use the standard medications.
Untreated scabies can lead to complications, primarily due to excessive scratching. Complications may include:
To prevent the spread of scabies, the following measures can be taken:
By following these preventive measures, the progression of scabies can be curtailed.
Reviewed by Dr. Prateek Nagrani, Attending Consultant, Dermatology on 06-Jun-2023.
Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.
Max Healthcare is home to 5000 eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. Additionally, they are renowned for developing innovative and revolutionary clinical procedures.
Find a Doctor