DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Dermatologic Condition

Scabies

LOW SEVERITY

A contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Causes intense itching and rash as the mites burrow into skin to lay eggs. Spreads through close skin-to-skin contact. Common in crowded conditions and healthcare settings.

Global Affected

200.0M

Countries

27

Symptoms

Intense itching (worse at night)
Rash with tiny burrows
Small red bumps/blisters
Sores from scratching
Thick crusty skin (crusted scabies)
Distribution: webs of fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, buttocks

Treatment Options

Permethrin 5% cream
Ivermectin (oral)
Lindane (alternative)
Crotamiton
Benzyl benzoate
Antihistamines (itching)
Antibiotics (secondary infection)
Treat all household contacts

Risk Factors

1Close skin-to-skin contact
2Household members with scabies
3Sexual contact
4Crowded living conditions
5Healthcare/long-term care settings
6Immunocompromised
7Homelessness
8Poor hygiene (in crowded settings)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical diagnosis
  • 2Skin scraping with microscopic examination
  • 3Dermoscopy
  • 4Ink test (burrow identification)
  • 5Biopsy (rarely needed)

Prognosis

Excellent with treatment. Itching may persist 2-4 weeks after mites killed (post-scabetic itch). Re-treatment sometimes needed. Crusted scabies requires aggressive treatment. Re-infection possible.

Prevention

  • Treat all contacts simultaneously
  • Wash bedding/clothing in hot water
  • Vacuum furniture/carpets
  • Avoid close contact until treated
  • Good hygiene in institutions
  • Screening in healthcare settings

Research Status

Permethrin cream standard treatment. Ivermectin for resistant or severe cases. Treat all close contacts simultaneously. Environmental decontamination important. Mass drug administration in endemic areas.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmarkIrelandSouth AfricaEgyptNigeriaKenyaTanzaniaUgandaGhana

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/scabies
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies
  • https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/scabies

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.