Scabies
Scabies is an intensely itchy rash caused by infestation with the burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabiei, spread by prolonged skin-to-skin contact and treatable with topical and/or oral medications.
Scabies is an intensely itchy rash caused by an infestation with a burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei.
Infected individuals develop pink papules, excoriations, nodules, and burrows (thread-like tracks in the skin). These findings mainly affect the hands, wrists, axillae (armpits), feet, waistline, and genitalia.
It is spread by direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact with a person who has scabies and may also be spread through sharing bedding, clothing, or towels with an infected person.
Scabies can be treated with topical and/or oral medications. Additionally, washing bedding, clothing, and towels and vacuuming furniture and carpets are recommended to eradicate the mite.
This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice, our board-certified dermatologists can evaluate and treat your specific concern.
More in Infections & Infestations
Keep exploring conditions and treatments in this area of dermatology.
Questions about scabies?
Request an appointment online or call either office to have one of our board-certified dermatologists evaluate your skin.