SKIN PROBLEMS

1. the web of the fingers
2. the inner edge of the hand
3. the elbows
4. the front of the wrists
5. the nipples with the production of a raw oozing area
6. the penis and scrotum in the male
7. the buttocks
8. the face is never affected except in the case of breast feeding babies

Treatment consists of local applications of one of a number of active agents which kill the parasite. Usually the lotion is applied at night after a hot bath with light scrubbing of the skin. The lotion is left on for 24 hours and washed off thoroughly in a hot bath. The lotion should be applied from the neck down to the whole body area. Diluted solutions may be necessary for children. A second treatment may be required in 5 days.

Anyone who has come into close contact with a scabies sufferer should be treated, and exposed clothing should be washed in hot water. In children, the teacher and classmates should be made aware of the diagnosis, and sleeping in the same bed or sharing clothes between children avoided.