Scabies Bites

How To Identify The Disease

Scabies is an infestation of the skin caused by the human itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis). These microscopic pests burrow into the surface layer of the skin where they live and lay eggs. Identification is made by examining the skin to determine the presence of the mite and by the typical symptoms of scabies.

Symptoms

Individuals with scabies develop pimple-like rashes and experience intense itching that worsens in the evening. Scabies rash often develops on the wrist, elbow, armpit, nipple, waist, belt-line, buttocks, and between the fingers. Young children can experience rash symptoms anywhere above the neck, on the palms of the hands, and on soles of the feet.

Scabies sometimes leave noticeable burrows on the skin. The result of female tunneling, burrows looks like small, raised lines on the surface of the skin and may appear skin-colored or grayish-white. Burrows can be difficult to find if only a few mites are living in the skin. The human itch mite does not actually bite or sting, but eats human skin and cell liquids.

Always seek the advice and care of a physician for treatment of scabies.

Risks Associated With Infections

Repeated scratching of scabies rashes can create skin sores that may develop bacterial infections.

How To Identify Scabies On Pets

The symptoms of canine and feline scabies (mange) are similar. Signs of scabies on pets can be seen on the skin of the ears, elbows, face, and the underside of the chest.

The onset is abrupt with scratching, hair loss, and inflamed skin in affected areas. Crusty ear tips also signify a pet has scabies. In the later stages, after prolonged infection, the skin becomes thick, crusted, scaly and darkly pigmented.