Introduction
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by a tiny parasitic mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The female mite burrows into the outer layer of the skin, where it lays eggs and causes an inflammatory reaction. Scabies can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and is commonly spread through close, prolonged skin-to-skin contact.

Causes and Transmission
Scabies spreads mainly through direct skin contact with an infected person, such as between household members or sexual partners. Less commonly, it may spread through shared clothing, towels or bedding. It is not necessarily a sign of poor personal hygiene.

Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of scabies include:

• Intense itching, particularly at night.
• A pimple-like rash or small red bumps.
• Thin, raised burrow lines on the skin.
• Skin irritation, scratching and possible secondary bacterial infections.

The rash commonly appears between the fingers, around the wrists, elbows, waist, buttocks and genital area. In infants and young children, the scalp, palms and soles may also be affected.

Diagnosis
Scabies is usually diagnosed through a medical examination of the skin and assessment of symptoms and contact history. A healthcare professional may identify burrows or mites using a dermatoscope or examine a skin scraping under a microscope.

Treatment and Prevention
Scabies is treatable with prescribed medicines. Treatment should follow medical advice, and close household contacts and sexual partners generally need treatment at the same time, even if they have no symptoms.

Clothing, towels and bedding used recently should be washed in hot water and dried thoroughly. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a bag for several days. Avoid close physical contact until treatment guidance has been followed.

Complications
If left untreated, scabies can cause persistent itching, skin sores and secondary bacterial infections. A severe form called crusted scabies can occur in some people, particularly those with weakened immune systems, and is highly contagious.

Conclusion
Scabies is a common parasitic skin infestation that can cause significant discomfort and spread easily through close contact. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and simultaneous management of close contacts are essential to prevent re-infestation and further transmission. Anyone experiencing persistent itching or a suspicious rash should seek advice from a healthcare professional.

If you have any concerns about any lesions on your skin and wish to have these checked, please visit our site for appointment details.