This is a photomicrograph of a skin scraping that contains a
scabies mite, eggs, and feces. This animal burrows into the skin,
depositing both eggs and feces. A scabies infestation causes
intense itching (pruritus) which leads to scratching and damage of
the skin (excoriation). If left untreated, the infestation may last
for years, and has been called the "seven year itch".
Review Date: 10/04/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center
for Dermatologic Disease. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare
Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
