Scabies

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. It spreads through close physical contact or sharing bedding, clothing, and personal items. Scabies can affect anyone, but it is more common in crowded living conditions.
 

Understanding Scabies


The primary symptom of scabies is severe itching, especially at night, along with a rash that can appear as small bumps, blisters, or scales. Prompt treatment is necessary to eliminate the mites and prevent spreading the condition to others.
 

Effective Scabies Treatment at Riva Dermatology


At Riva Dermatology, we provide effective treatments for scabies, including prescription creams and oral medications. Our dermatologists offer comprehensive care to relieve itching and ensure complete eradication of the mites.

What are the Symptoms of Scabies?

  • Intense itching, especially at night.
  • As the scabies mites burrow into the skin and lay eggs, they cause a rash that appears as tiny red bumps or pimples. 
  • The rash may develop into more crusty or scaly areas.
  • The itching is a result of the body's allergic reaction to the presence of the mites and their waste.

Causes of Scabies

  • Scabies is caused by an infestation of the Sarcoptes scabiei mite.
  • These tiny mites are microscopic and cannot be seen by the naked eye.
  • The mites burrow into the outer layers of human skin to live and lay their eggs, triggering an allergic reaction in the host.
  • Scabies is highly contagious and can spread through close personal contact with an infected person.

How to Prevent Scabies

Preventing scabies involves avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact with infested individuals and their belongings. Regularly wash and clean bedding, clothing, and personal items to reduce the risk of infestation. Maintain good personal hygiene, refrain from sharing personal items, and be cautious in crowded environments.

If someone in close contact has scabies, seek prompt treatment for everyone involved to prevent the mites from spreading. 

Scabies FAQs

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by mites that burrow into the skin. It is transmitted through close physical contact or sharing personal items like bedding and clothing.

Symptoms include intense itching, especially at night, and a pimple-like rash. Small burrows may also be visible on the skin.

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and may include a skin scraping to identify mites, eggs, or fecal matter under a microscope.


Treatment involves prescription creams or oral medications to eliminate the mites. All household members and close contacts should also be treated to prevent reinfestation.

Prevention includes avoiding close contact with infected individuals, not sharing personal items, and practicing good hygiene. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent spreading.

How to Treat Scabies

Dermatological treatments for scabies include but are not limited to:
  • Topical Medication to eliminate the mites.
  • Oral Ivermectin on select cases.
  • Oral Antihistamines to reduce itching.
  • Topical Steroids to reduce itching.
  • Systemic Steroids in severe cases to reduce itching.
If you suspect scabies, we encourage you to schedule a skin check with one of our dermatologists. We can guide you to a custom treatment plan to provide relief and eliminate the mites.