What is scabies?

Sep 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by the parasitism of scabies mites in the epidermal layer of human skin. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. Once suspected symptoms are noticed, prompt medical consultation is necessary to avoid delaying treatment by self-medication. During treatment, close-fitting clothing, bedding, and similar items should be washed with boiling water and thoroughly sun-dried to kill any residual scabies mites.

Generally speaking, scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by the寄生 of Sarcoptes scabiei mites in the epidermal layer of human skin. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites burrowing into the epidermis of human skin. These mites typically infest thin and tender skin areas such as the spaces between fingers, wrists, and armpits. They lay eggs and secrete excretions within skin tunnels, irritating nerve endings and causing intense itching in patients. This is often accompanied by tiny papules and vesicles; scratching can easily damage the skin and even lead to secondary infections. The disease mainly spreads through direct close contact but can also be transmitted indirectly through shared personal items such as clothing, bedding, and towels. Outbreaks are common in crowded environments like households and communal dormitories.

If suspected symptoms appear, timely medical consultation is necessary to avoid self-medication that may delay treatment. During treatment, undergarments, bedding, and other personal items should be washed with boiling water and fully exposed to sunlight to completely kill any remaining mites. Family members or close contacts should undergo simultaneous examinations and, if necessary, receive concurrent treatment to prevent cross-infection. To relieve itching, scratching should be avoided as much as possible; anti-itch medications may be used according to medical advice, and maintaining clean and dry skin helps promote recovery.

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