Scabies

Question 1

What is scabies?

Answer 1

An intensely itchy skin infestation caused by parasite Sarcoptes scbiei (type IV hypersensitivity reaction)

Question 2

How is scabies transmitted?

Answer 2

• Prolonged skin contact with an infected person
• Often sexually acquired
• Symptoms develop 3-6 weeks after primary infestation

Question 3

What are risk factors for scabies?

Answer 3

• Close contact with an infested person
• High levels of poverty and social deprivation
• Crowded living conditions
• Winter months

Question 4

How does scabies present?

Answer 4

• Widespread pruritus
• Linear burrows on fingers, interdigital webs and flexors of wrist
• Can affect face and scalp in infants

Question 5

How is scabies managed?

Answer 5

• Permethrin 5%
• Malathion 0.5%
• Patient education on avoiding close physical contact/laundering clothes, bedding, towels etc
• All household/close physical contacts treated even if no symptoms