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Scabies

Find out more about common and rare skin conditions, the causes and symptoms and how we can help you treat these conditions

Scabies

Causes & Symptoms

Scabies appears as a highly contagious and itchy rash that easily spreads to other members in the same household. Small mites known as ‘sarcoptes scabiei var hominis mite’ infest the skin and causes extreme itching and can live

The rash arises due to an allergic reaction to the mite.  However, this could take a month or more to appear after first being exposed or infested with the scabies mite. Young children and infants may produce itchy pimples on their hands and feet.

Treatment for scabies

At The Skin Hospital our Speciality Clinics are run by dermatologists who have sub-specialised in a chosen condition bringing deep knowledge and specific expertise, however all dermatologists at the Skin Hospital are highly trained to treat this condition.

An infection is caused my close contact (skin to skin) or sharing clothes and bedding with someone who has the infection.  The transfer of mites is increased in warmer temperatures as well as the itch often becoming worse at night.  The scabies mite leaves squiggly burrows in the skin, less than 1cm in length. These burrows are usually found between the fingers, wrists, feet and genitals.

Furthermore, the mite is unable to be seen without the use of a microscope.  Scraping the skin burrows will reveal the mite, eggs or faeces when examined.

 

The Australasian College of Dermatologists DermNet NZ
Scabies

Find a specialist

We have a number of Dermatologist specialising in scabies. If you are concerned, book your appointment with The Skin Hospital.

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