Scabies Infections: Images, Remedies, and Origins
Scabies, a contagious skin infestation caused by human itch mites, is a common health issue that affects millions worldwide. Characterised by an intense itch, a rash of small red or pink bumps, and fine, thread-like scaly lines known as burrows, scabies can be found in various areas of the body, with different common sites in adults and children.
The main symptom of scabies is intense nocturnal itching, often causing significant discomfort and sleep disturbances. The rash, which consists of small red bumps and burrows, is typically found in characteristic areas such as between the fingers (finger webs), inner wrists, elbows, armpits, breasts (in females), genitals (in males), belly button, lower abdomen, buttocks, backs of knees, and other skin folds. In young children, lesions are more commonly found on the trunk, arms, legs, neck, palms, and soles.
Scabies can be divided into three types: typical scabies, crusted (Norwegian) scabies, and nodular scabies. Typical scabies involves a moderate infestation with symptoms mainly in skin folds, while crusted scabies is a severe, highly contagious form with thick crusty patches, typically occurring in people with weakened immune systems. Nodular scabies presents as firm, itchy nodules appearing mainly in sensitive areas like armpits or groin, caused by an allergic reaction even after the mites are gone.
The primary treatment for scabies is the application of topical scabicides, or medicines applied to the skin. The most commonly recommended treatment is permethrin cream 5%. Other options include benzyl benzoate, sulfur ointments, and lindane (less commonly used due to toxicity concerns). Treatment usually involves applying the cream over the entire body from the neck down and leaving it on for 8-14 hours before washing off. Repeat application after 1 week may be necessary to kill newly hatched mites.
In severe cases of crusted scabies, oral ivermectin may be prescribed in addition to topical treatment. To relieve itching and inflammation after the mites are killed, antihistamines or steroid creams may be used. It is essential to treat all close contacts and household members simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infested person should be washed in hot water and dried in high heat or sealed in plastic bags for 2-3 days to kill mites off the body.
Scabies is spread through close and sometimes intimate contact, such as in facilities like child care centers, nursing homes, and prisons. Short interpersonal interactions, like a brief handshake or hug, do not typically lead to scabies transmission. Most scabies mites cannot survive washing at any temperature.
If a person experiences itchy areas of skin, vesicles, or discolored areas of irritated skin that do not go away, they should see a doctor for evaluation. To prevent reinfestation or transmission, clothing, linens, and towels worn or used by people with scabies within the past 3 days should be washed. Scabies cannot be treated with over-the-counter products and requires prescription medication for treatment and prevention of spreading.
- In addition to scabies, other medical-health conditions like bipolar, HIV, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, obesity, dry skin, arthritis, and atopic dermatitis also pose health challenges.
- Some individuals may experience skin-conditions such as psoriatic rash or psoriatic arthritis, which can be predictive of a more significant health-and-wellness concern.
- Depression, a mental-health issue, often coexists with skin-conditions like psoriasis, adding another layer of complexity to health management.
- Diabetes, a chronic disease, can lead to various skin-care problems, including an increased risk of bacterial and fungal infections, as well as conditions like dry skin and rash.
- Hepatitis, a liver infection, can sometimes present symptoms on the skin, such as a rash or yellowing of the eyes (macular).
- Science has made strides in understanding and managing skin-conditions, but further research is needed to develop more effective and personalized treatment approaches.
- Management of chronic diseases like HIV and diabetes requires careful consideration of all aspects of health, including mental-health, skin-care, and adherence to medical recommendations.
- Preventive measures such as practicing good hygiene, using appropriate skin-care products, and avoiding close contact with individuals with contagious skin-conditions are essential to maintaining good health-and-wellness.
- AQ, a new class of topical medication currently under development, shows promise in treating various skin-conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.
- Degenerative diseases, such as macular degeneration, can sometimes affect the skin as well, leading to dryness, wrinkles, and increased susceptibility to other skin-conditions.
- By understanding the relationship between mental-health and skin-conditions, medical professionals can provide more comprehensive care to their patients.
- Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential for early detection and management of any potential skin-conditions or health-related concerns.
- Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel disease, is not solely a gastrointestinal issue; it can also present with skin manifestations, including rash, redness, and pustules.
