How to treat skin mites? - briefly
Use topical scabicides (e.g., permethrin 5 % cream) or oral ivermectin to eliminate the parasites, and maintain strict skin hygiene by washing bedding and clothing in hot water. Repeat treatment after one week to ensure eradication of any surviving mites.
How to treat skin mites? - in detail
Skin mite infestations require a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, pharmacologic intervention, and environmental control. Confirmation of the species—such as Sarcoptes scabiei (causing scabies) or Demodex spp.—guides the selection of appropriate agents.
Pharmacologic options fall into three categories:
- Topical acaricides – Permethrin 5 % cream applied to the entire body for a specified duration; benzyl benzoate or sulfur ointments as alternatives for patients with contraindications.
- Systemic treatments – Ivermectin administered orally at 200 µg/kg, repeated after one week for scabies; oral metronidazole for secondary bacterial infection associated with Demodex overgrowth.
- Adjunctive medications – Antihistamines to alleviate pruritus; topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation when severe dermatitis accompanies the infestation.
Environmental measures are essential to prevent reinfestation:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in airtight containers for a minimum of 72 hours, exploiting the mites’ limited survival off the host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattresses thoroughly; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Patient education should emphasize the need for simultaneous treatment of household contacts, adherence to dosing schedules, and monitoring for adverse reactions. Follow‑up examinations, typically 2–4 weeks after therapy, confirm eradication and assess for residual lesions or secondary infection.