Scabies Infestations and Infections

Scabies / infestations / infections Overview:

Scabies is a condition caused by a mite, which burrows itself into the skin and is not visible on the top of the skin. When the mite begins to live and feed on the skin, the skin has a reaction to it resulting in severe itching. Scabies is extremely contagious and the mite can jump from person to person via direct skin-to-skin contact. It can also spread from bedding, clothes, and furniture. Any age group can get scabies and seems to be more common in long-term facilities like nursing homes. Dr. Harold F. Farber, MD has diagnosed and treated many cases of scabies with short term distress to the patients.

Why treat scabies / infestations / infections?

In order to get rid of the mite, treatment is necessary. If not treated, the mite can travel in the skin and affect other parts of the body causing intense itching and some people made develop severe allergic reactions to it.

Scabies / infestations / infections Symptoms:

• Itch at the affected area, mainly at night
• A rash which can turn into sores from scratching constantly
• There might be linear streaks from the mite forming borrows under the skin

How do Dermatologists diagnose scabies / infestations / infections?

Dr. Harold F. Farber, MD will do a thorough examination of the whole body to check for infestation. He will also perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, which is painless.

How does Dr. Harold F. Farber, MD treat scabies/infestations/infections?

• 5% permethrin cream
• 10% crotamiton cream
• 25% benzyl benzoate lotion
• Sulfur (5%-10%) ointment
• 1% lindane lotion
• Treatment of scabies also involves the treatment of close contacts as they could be infested with the mite.