Scabies Overview: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
Learn about scabies, a contagious skin condition. Discover its symptoms, mite-related causes, diagnosis methods, and effective treatment options for relief.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 25th Aug, 2025
Scabies is a common skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching and rashes. While it can affect anyone, it spreads easily through close contact, making it important to recognize the symptoms early and seek treatment.
This article will help you understand scabies, its symptoms, causes, and how it can be diagnosed and treated. We’ll also share some useful tips to prevent its spread and ease discomfort.
What is Scabies?
Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. These microscopic mites dig into the upper layer of the skin, where they lay eggs, leading to an allergic reaction that causes severe itching and a rash.
Scabies spreads through prolonged skin to skin contact, such as holding hands, sharing bedding, or living in crowded conditions. It can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but it is more common in places like nursing homes, childcare centers, and prisons.
Symptoms of Scabies
The most common signs of scabies include:
- Intense itching, especially at night
- Rash with small red bumps or blisters
- Burrow tracks (thin, wavy, grayish white lines on the skin)
- Sores from scratching, which can lead to infections
The itching is often worse at night and can be so severe that it disturbs sleep. Common areas affected include:
- Between fingers
- Wrists, elbows, and armpits
- Waistline and buttocks
- Genitals (in adults)
- Scalp, face, and neck (in infants and young children)
- If you or someone in your family has these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Scabies?
Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which spreads through:
1. Direct skin contact – Holding hands, hugging, or sexual contact with an infected person.
2. Sharing personal items – Clothes, towels, or bedding used by an infected person can spread mites.
3. Crowded living conditions – Places like nursing homes, dormitories, or refugee camps have higher risks.
The mites can survive for up to 48-72 hours away from human skin, so washing contaminated items is crucial to prevent reinfection.
Consult a Dermatologist for personalised care
How is Scabies Diagnosed?
A doctor can usually diagnose scabies by examining the rash and burrows. Sometimes, they may:
- Take a skin scraping – A small sample is checked under a microscope to confirm mites, eggs, or feces.
- Use an ink test – A washable marker is applied to the skin; if wiped away, burrows may appear as dark lines.
- If you suspect scabies, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for Scabies
Scabies won’t go away on its own and requires medical treatment. The most common treatments include:
1. Prescription creams and lotions –
- Permethrin cream (5%) – Applied from the neck down, left overnight, and washed off.
- Ivermectin (oral medication) – Used for severe cases or when creams aren’t effective.
- Sulfur ointment – A safe option for pregnant women and infants.
2. Antihistamines or steroid creams – To reduce itching and inflammation.
3. Treating close contacts – Since scabies spreads easily, family members or close contacts should also be treated, even if they don’t show symptoms.
Home Care and Prevention Tips?
Along with medical treatment, follow these steps to prevent reinfection:
- Wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water (at least 50°C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non-washable items (like stuffed toys) in a plastic bag for 72 hours to kill mites.
- Vacuum carpets and furniture to remove any mites.
- Avoid scratching to prevent skin infections. Keep nails short and clean.
- Avoid close contact until treatment is complete (usually 12 weeks).
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Severe itching that doesn’t improve with treatment
- Signs of infection (pus, swelling, fever)
- No improvement after 2-4 weeks
- You should consult a doctor immediately.
Final Thoughts
Scabies is uncomfortable but treatable. Early diagnosis and proper care can help you recover quickly and prevent spreading it to others. If you suspect scabies, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
For expert consultation or to book a dermatologist appointment, visit Apollo 24|7 today. Stay informed, stay healthy!
Consult a Dermatologist
Consult a Dermatologist for personalised care
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Consult a Dermatologist
Dr. Madhab Datta
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (DVL)
Kolkata
Dr. Madhab Datta's Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sonal Jain
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Skin & VD), DNB (DVL), Fellowship in Dermato Surgery
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Madhu R
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS MD -Dermatology
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Benugopal Mohapatra
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, DNB (DVL)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr. Somshukla Ray
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy), DNB (Dermatology,Venerology & Leprosy)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)