How is the scabies mite killed? - briefly
The parasite is eradicated by applying a 5 % permethrin cream or administering a single oral dose of ivermectin, both of which disrupt its nervous system. All clothing, bedding and towels should be washed at ≥60 °C or sealed in airtight containers for at least seven days to prevent re‑infestation.
How is the scabies mite killed? - in detail
Effective eradication of the Sarcoptes scabiei organism relies on pharmacologic and environmental interventions.
Topical agents act directly on the mite’s nervous system or cuticle. Permethrin 5 % cream penetrates the epidermis, disrupting voltage‑gated sodium channels, leading to paralysis and death within hours. Application to the entire body from the neck down, left for 8–14 hours, and repeated after one week eliminates surviving stages. Benzyl benzoate 25 % solution works as a neurotoxin; it is applied to dry skin, left for 24 hours, then washed off. Crotamiton 10 % cream interferes with nerve transmission and requires a 24‑hour contact period, repeated after 24 hours. Sulfur ointment (5–10 %) exerts a toxic effect through sulfide production; it must remain on the skin for 24 hours, with a second application after one week.
Oral therapy provides systemic exposure. Ivermectin 200 µg/kg is given as a single dose, repeated after 7–10 days. The drug binds glutamate‑gated chloride channels in the mite’s nervous system, causing hyperpolarization, paralysis, and mortality. In severe or crusted cases, a three‑dose regimen (day 0, 7, 14) improves outcomes.
Environmental control prevents reinfestation. All clothing, bedding, and towels used within the preceding 72 hours should be washed in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and tumble‑dried on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered may be sealed in plastic bags for at least 72 hours, a period exceeding the mite’s survival outside the host. Heat treatment of furniture (steam cleaning) and freezing of non‑washable objects at –20 °C for a minimum of 48 hours are also effective.
Resistance monitoring is essential. Documented reduced susceptibility to permethrin necessitates alternative agents such as ivermectin or combination therapy.
In summary, killing the scabies mite involves neurotoxic topical preparations, systemic ivermectin, and rigorous decontamination of personal items. Proper dosing intervals, complete skin coverage, and adherence to laundering protocols guarantee complete elimination.