Scabies (Luto / लुतो) is a contagious skin condition caused by the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It affects people of all ages and is not linked to personal hygiene. Derma Clinic in Kathmandu, Nepal specializes in providing effective treatment for scabies, ensuring relief from symptoms and preventing complications.
What is Scabies?
Scabies occurs when mites burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and visible rashes. The female mite lays eggs within the skin’s upper layer, leading to the characteristic symptoms. The condition spreads through prolonged skin-to-skin contact or sharing contaminated items such as clothing and bedding.
Symptoms of Scabies
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Intense Itching | Severe itching, especially at night or after a hot bath. |
| Skin Rash | Pimple-like bumps, hives, or blisters that vary in color depending on skin tone. |
| Burrows | Thin, wavy lines indicating tunnels created by mites. |
| Affected Areas | Fingers, toes, wrists, elbows, waist, genitals, and buttocks in adults; head, face, neck, palms, and soles in children. |
Symptoms typically appear 3–6 weeks after initial infestation but can develop within days for individuals previously exposed.
Causes of Scabies
Scabies is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, a microscopic mite belonging to the Arachnida class. These mites burrow into the skin’s stratum corneum to lay eggs. The life cycle includes four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Understanding this cycle helps tailor treatments to eliminate mites at all stages.
Types of Scabies
| Type | Key Characteristics | Contagiousness | Common Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Scabies | Intense itching, rash with burrows; low mite count (10–15). | Contagious via prolonged contact. | All age groups. |
| Nodular Scabies | Itchy red nodules (5–20 mm); hypersensitivity reaction. | Less contagious. | Children; affects genitals and armpits. |
| Crusted (Norwegian) Scabies | Thick crusts with millions of mites; mild itching. | Highly contagious (brief contact). | Immunocompromised individuals. |
Crusted scabies is particularly severe and requires urgent attention due to its high contagion risk.
Treatment Options at Derma Clinic
Derma Clinic in Nepal provides comprehensive care for scabies using proven medical treatments combined with hygiene measures.
1. Medications
- Topical Treatments:
- Permethrin Cream: Applied over the entire body to kill mites.
- Benzyl Benzoate Lotion: Effective against mites and eggs.
- Sulfur Ointment: Safe for pregnant women and infants.
- Oral Medications:
- Ivermectin: Used for severe cases like crusted scabies or when topical treatments fail.
2. Hygiene Practices
- Wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water.
- Avoid sharing personal items.
- Vacuum furniture and carpets to remove mites.
- Everyone in the family should be treated even if they don’t have any symptoms.
3. Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-ups ensure complete eradication of mites and address any lingering symptoms like post-scabies itch or nodules.
Complications of Untreated Scabies
If left untreated, scabies can lead to severe health issues:
1. Secondary Infections
Scratching damages the skin barrier, allowing bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes to cause infections such as:
- Impetigo (sores).
- Cellulitis (skin inflammation).
- Abscesses (pus-filled lumps).
2. Systemic Issues
Infections may escalate to:
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (kidney damage).
- Rheumatic fever and heart disease.
- Septicemia (blood infection).
3. Social Impact
Persistent itching disrupts sleep and daily activities, affecting mental health and quality of life.
Preventing Scabies Outbreaks
Effective prevention strategies include:
- Early diagnosis and treatment.
- Treating all close contacts simultaneously.
- Maintaining personal hygiene and cleaning shared spaces.
Why Choose Derma Clinic?
Derma Clinic in Kathmandu offers:
- Expert dermatologists specializing in scabies treatment.
- Advanced diagnostic tools for accurate identification.
- Customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
- Supportive care for managing complications like infections or post-scabies itch.
Conclusion
Scabies is a treatable condition that requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications and outbreaks. Derma Clinic in Kathmandu provides effective solutions through medication, hygiene measures, and follow-up care. For safe and reliable treatment of scabies, visit Derma Clinic Basundhara Chowki, Kathmandu today! or Call for Appointment at 9801358600/ 01-5918555