Scabies (Q38561): Difference between revisions

A highly contagious infestation of the skin by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. It may result in epidemics when introduced into institutions such as schools and nursing homes. The mites burrow into the skin, favouring the extremities, genitalia and, in infants, the axillae. The characteristic widespread intensely pruritic papulovesicular rash results largely from the host response rather than directly to burrowing by mites. Where such a response is absent as in immunosuppressed or debilitated patients, unchecked proliferation of mites results in crusted scabies. Sarcoptic mites from other mammals such as dogs may cause a transient pruritic eruption.