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Scabies

Definition:
Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by a very small mite.

Alternative Names:
Sarcoptes scabiei

Causes, incidence, and 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 itchyrash 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.



Review Date: 7/28/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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