01/18/2008

"THE ITCH"

The skin infection known as scabies, otherwise called called "the itch," is caused by the burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Female mites burrow into the top layer of skin to lay their eggs, which are usually transmitted from person to person by close bodily contact. The infection begins as small, itchy blisters that break when scratched. The itchy skin may become thick, scaly, and crisscrossed with scratch marks. Scabies commonly affect the arms and hands, especially the webs of skin between the fingers, the inner part of the wrists, and the folds under the arms. Other areas may be affected in severe infections, particularly the elbows and around the breasts, genitals, navel, and buttocks. Treatment usually consists of a pesticide lotion.

P.S. The only way to find out whether you have scabies is for the dermatologist to scrape off a piece of skin and examine it under a microscope.

If you experience intense itching that is particularly bad in the early morning hours and awakens you from sleep, you may have scabies. Call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to arrange an evaluation from a Board Certified Dermatologist. Our goal is to consistently provide expert care for skin conditions and diseases including scabies as well as eczema, acne, Rosacea, and many others. We consider it a privilege to care for you and your family. The practice is located at 242 N. York Road, Suite 101, Elmhurst. Most medical insurances are accepted.