scabies

(noun)

An infestation of parasitic mites, Sarcoptes scabiei, causing intense itching caused by the mites burrowing into the skin of humans and other animals. It is easily transmissible from human to human; secondary skin infection may occur.

Related Terms

Examples of scabies in the following topics:

  • Parasitic Skin Diseases

    • Parasites can cause skin infections and common examples include creeping eruption, lice, and scabies.
    • Common parasitic skin diseases include creeping eruption, lice, and scabies.
    • The characteristic symptoms of a scabies infection include intense itching and superficial burrows .
    • The classical sign of scabies is the burrows made by the mites within the skin.
    • A number of medications are effective in treating scabies with permethrin being the most effective treatment.