How can you treat scabies caused by a mite? - briefly
Effective treatment includes applying a 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body, leaving it on for 8–14 hours and repeating after one week; alternatively, a single oral dose of ivermectin (200 µg/kg) can be given, with a second dose one week later for resistant cases. Both regimens eradicate the mite and alleviate symptoms.
How can you treat scabies caused by a mite? - in detail
Scabies caused by the Sarcoptes mite requires prompt eradication to prevent ongoing transmission and secondary infection.
First‑line therapy is a 5 % permethrin cream applied to the entire body from the neck down, left on for 8–14 hours, then washed off. A second application 24 hours later eliminates newly hatched mites.
Alternative topical agents include:
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, applied similarly to permethrin.
- Sulfur ointment (5–10 %) applied nightly for 3–5 days; useful in infants and pregnant patients.
- Benzyl benzoate 25 % solution, left on for 24 hours before washing.
- Crotamiton 10 % cream, applied nightly for three consecutive days.
Oral ivermectin provides a systemic option, especially for crusted scabies or cases resistant to topical treatment. The standard dose is 200 µg/kg, taken on day 1 and repeated on day 2; severe infestations may require additional doses on days 5 and 8.
Environmental control reduces reinfestation: wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and dry on high heat; items unable to be laundered should be sealed in plastic for at least 72 hours. Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture removes detached mites.
Special populations demand dosage adjustments:
- Infants under 2 months: 5 % permethrin is safe; sulfur ointment is preferred when permethrin is unavailable.
- Pregnant or lactating women: 5 % permethrin and sulfur ointment are considered low risk; oral ivermectin is contraindicated.
- Immunocompromised patients: may require combined topical and oral therapy, extended treatment duration, and close monitoring for secondary bacterial infection.
Treatment success is assessed by resolution of itching within 2–4 weeks; persistent lesions after this period suggest treatment failure or reinfestation. Resistance to permethrin has been reported; rotating agents or adding oral ivermectin can mitigate this risk.
Comprehensive management combines pharmacologic eradication, strict hygiene, and patient education to achieve lasting control of mite‑induced scabies.