Scabies

Updated: 2023-10-12

Description

A contagious, very itchy skin condition caused by a tiny, burrowing mite.

Overview

Scabies is caused by the body's allergic reaction to a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. Scabies can spread quickly through close skin-to-skin contact. Less often, it spreads through shared clothes or bedding. People do not catch scabies from pets.

Symptoms

Scabies symptoms include itching that is often serious and is usually worse at night. The condition also can cause thin, wavy tunnels made up of tiny blisters or bumps on the skin.

Treatments

Scabies treatment involves taking medicine by mouth or using a medicated cream. A prescription from a healthcare professional is needed. Once treatment is started, it may take weeks for the itching to go away.