Scabies is a skin infection. It is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The infection is characterized by severe itching. It has a distinctive pattern of distribution. Mites live within the skin and are typically identified through skin scrapings. Scabies is a highly contagious zoonotic disease, it can spread across infected animals including human.

Epidemiology of Scabies

Scabies is prevalent in rural regions of Africa, particularly in areas where water is scarce. It is less common among individuals who keep regular bathing habits.

The spread of this condition is facilitated by low socio-economic circumstances. The disease is transmitted through direct close contact with an infected individual. It is also spread indirectly via contaminated bedclothes and garments.

The female mite penetrates the skin, creating a small, superficial tunnel or burrow. The areas chosen for burrowing are typically thin and wrinkled, which results in a characteristic distribution of the scabies rash.

Within these burrows, eggs and feces are produced, with the eggs hatching within 4 to 5 days. The larvae exit the original tunnel. They embed themselves in other areas of the skin. Yet, they do not form new tunnels.