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Basics
Description
- A contagious parasitic infection of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, var. hominis
- System(s) affected: Skin/Exocrine
- Synonym(s): Sarcoptic mange
Epidemiology
Incidence
Predominant age: Children and young adults
- Global prevalence is estimated at 300 million cases.
- May be more prevalent in urban areas and areas of overcrowding
Risk Factors
- Personal skin-to-skin contact (e.g., sexual promiscuity, crowding, nosocomial infection)
- Poor nutritional status, poverty, and homelessness
- Hot, tropical climates
- Seasonal variation: Incidence may be higher in the winter than in the summer (may be due to overcrowding).
- Immunocompromised patients, including those with HIV/AIDS, are at increased risk of developing severe (crusted/Norwegian) scabies.
General Prevention
Prevent outbreaks by prompt treatment and cleansing of fomites (see “Additional Treatment”).
Pathophysiology
Itching is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the mite saliva, eggs, or excrement.
Etiology
S. scabiei, var. hominis:
- An obligate human parasite
- Female mite lays eggs in burrows in the stratum corneum and epidermis.
- Primarily transmitted by human-to-human direct skin contact
- Infrequently transmitted via fomites (e.g., bedding, clothing, or furnishings)
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