How to treat scabies mite in children? - briefly
Apply a 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body, keep it on for 8–14 hours, and repeat the application after 7 days; for children over 12 kg who cannot use topical agents or have refractory disease, a single dose of oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) may be prescribed.
How to treat scabies mite in children? - in detail
Scabies in pediatric patients is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. The organism burrows into the epidermis, producing intense pruritus, especially at night. Diagnosis relies on clinical pattern—linear or serpiginous lesions in typical sites such as the wrists, interdigital spaces, and the axillae—supported by dermoscopy or skin scraping when necessary.
First‑line pharmacologic therapy is a 5 % permethrin cream. Apply a thin layer over the entire body from the neck down (including scalp in infants), leave for 8–14 hours, then wash off. Repeat the regimen after 7 days to eliminate newly hatched mites. Treatment duration is the same for children of any age; the preparation is safe for infants older than 2 months.
Alternative topical agents include 6 % sulfur ointment, applied nightly for 3 days, then twice weekly for 2 weeks. Sulfur is suitable for infants under 2 months and for families preferring a non‑synthetic option. Oral ivermectin is reserved for children weighing at least 15 kg or older than 5 years; the dose is 200 µg/kg given as a single oral dose, repeated after 7 days. Ivermectin should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation without specialist guidance.
Adjunctive measures for symptom control comprise oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 5 mg once daily for children 2–5 years, 10 mg for older children) and topical corticosteroids (low‑potency cream applied to inflamed areas for no more than 5 days). Cool compresses and colloidal oatmeal baths reduce itching without compromising mite eradication.
Environmental decontamination limits reinfestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the preceding 72 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for at least 72 hours, as mites cannot survive beyond three days off the host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly.
All household members and close contacts require simultaneous treatment, regardless of symptom presence, to prevent recurrence. Re‑examination after the second permethrin application confirms resolution; persistent lesions warrant repeat skin scraping and possible escalation to oral therapy.