Cause

Scabies is spread by tiny burrowing mites known as Sarcoptes scabiei. Once under the skin, these mites cause intense bouts of itching that usually get more intense at night.

Effects

Symptoms of scabies include itching, thin red burrow tracks made of blisters or bumps, rashes and sores. In adults, the hands, wrists, genitals and abdomen are involved. Children get scabies on their head and scalp, palms and soles of their feet.

Infections

Scabies spreads quickly throughout families and other close groups. The infection is passed by close contact and sharing personal effects such as towels or bed sheets. Scabies can be transmitted even before a patient shows symptoms. Doctors often treat entire families when one member becomes sick with scabies.

Complications

Scratching your skin may lead to skin breakage, which can cause secondary bacterial infections such as impetigo. This disease is spread by staph or strep bacteria and can be even more difficult to treat than the original infection.

Prevention/Solution

The primary cure for a case of scabies is application of skin cream to fight the mites. This cream must be worn for eight hours or more a day. For more extreme cases, doctors may prescribe oral medication. To prevent future relapses or additional cases of scabies, carefully wash and sterilize all linens and shared items.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Scabies

Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia: Scabies

Web MD: Scabies Topic Overview