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Scabies is an itchy skin rash that is caused by a mite that burrows under the skin and lays eggs. This insect is so tiny; it cannot be seen with the naked eye. Scabies commonly affects internationally adopted children. It can be highly contagious. Therefore, all family members should be watchful for signs of rash or unexplained itching.
In children, the rash commonly appears:
- Between the fingers
- Between the toes
- On the feet
In infants, the rash can also appear:
- On the palms of the hands
- On the waist
- In the groin
- In the armpits
- On the head
It is important to note that scabies can appear as late as two months after exposure.
Diagnosis of Scabies
Your child’s doctor will conduct a skin scraping exam if he or she suspects your child has scabies. A laboratory technician will then analyze the sample under a microscope to see if mites, eggs or mite feces (scybala) are present, which confirms the condition.
Treatments
Treatments
Doctors at Riley at IU Health typically treat scabies with a cream that contains a chemical insecticide called permethrin.
The cream should be applied to all parts of the body except the face. Do not let your child place his or her fingers in his or her mouth when you are applying the cream. The cream should be left on the skin for eight to 14 hours before washing it off with water. You will repeat the treatment one week later to ensure the infestation does not reoccur from persistent eggs hatching.
Petroleum ointment can be used to treat infestation of the eyelashes. You may apply the ointment three to four times per day for eight to 10 days.
An antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may also be prescribed to help with itching.
Environmental Issues
Bedding and clothing used four days before treatment should be washed in hot water. Clothing that cannot be laundered in hot water should be removed and stored for several days in order to prevent re-infestation. Thorough vacuuming of carpet and furniture may be helpful in preventing recurrence of infection.
Your child may return to school or day care once treatment has been completed, even if the rash is still present.
After Scabies Treatment
The rash and itching will continue for several weeks or months. Although the skin has been treated, remnants of the dead mite remain under the skin for some time. Your child may continue to need an antihistamine for comfort.
You can apply a 1% hydrocortisone cream to the rash and/or dry patches of skin but only after treatment has been completed.
Key Points to Remember
Key Points to Remember
- Scabies is a skin condition caused by a mite that burrows under the skin.
- Doctors treat scabies with a cream called permethrin.
- An oral antihistamine such as Benadryl or a 1% hydrocortisone cream may also be prescribed to help reduce itching.
- Scabies is highly contagious. You should take action to prevent its spread and subsequent infestation.
Support Services & Resources
Support Services & Resources
Visit the trusted websites below to learn more about scabies.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
Read more about how scabies is diagnosed and tips for managing the condition.
The CDC provides more in-depth information about scabies.