Sarcoptes scabiei is a parasitic mite that causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infection. The mites burrow into the top layers of the skin, where they lay their eggs and cause a variety of symptoms, including intense itching, rash, and raised, thread-like lines on the skin.
Scabies is usually spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, and can also be spread through shared clothing, bedding, or furniture. The infection can affect people of all ages, and is common in crowded living conditions such as nursing homes, prisons, and refugee camps.
Diagnosis of scabies is typically done through a skin examination or skin scraping, where a small sample of skin is taken and examined under a microscope for the presence of mites or their eggs. Treatment usually involves topical or oral medications such as permethrin or ivermectin, which can help to eliminate the mites and relieve symptoms.
Preventive measures include avoiding prolonged skin contact with infected individuals, washing clothing and bedding in hot water and drying in a hot dryer, and thoroughly cleaning and vacuuming furniture and carpets. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of scabies.
