What is scabies?
Scabies is a skin infection caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. The mite burrows small tunnels in the upper layer of the skin, where it lays eggs. It is the body's immune response to the mite and its waste products that causes itching and skin irritation.
Scabies is primarily transmitted through close and prolonged skin contact, e.g. between family members, partners, or people who live in close quarters for long periods of time. Transmission can also occur via bedding, clothing, or towels, but this is less common.
The disease can affect people of all ages and occurs in both children and adults.
Symptoms of scabies
The most common symptoms of scabies are:
Intense itching
The itching is often worst at night and can be very uncomfortable.
Small red bumps, blisters, or skin irritation.
Small tunnels in the skin
The scabies mite creates thin, winding tunnels in the skin, which can be seen as fine lines.
Typical areas on the body
Scabies is often seen in the following areas:
- Between the fingers
- Wrist
- Elbows
- Armpits
- Around the navel
- Buttocks and genitals
In children, it can also be seen on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and face.
Symptoms typically appear 2–6 weeks after infection, but in people who have had scabies before, symptoms may appear more quickly.
Diagnosis by a dermatologist
Scabies can often be diagnosed by a clinical assessment of the skin and symptoms. The dermatologist will typically examine the skin for characteristic burrows and rashes.
In some cases, the diagnosis can be confirmed by taking a small skin sample or by using dermatoscopy, where the skin is examined under magnification.
A correct diagnosis is important because scabies can be confused with other skin conditions such as eczema or allergic reactions.
Treatment of scabies
Scabies is treated with medication that kills the mites.
The most commonly used treatments are:
Scabies cream (permethrin)
- Apply to the entire body
- Should typically remain on the skin for 8–12 hours
- The treatment is often repeated after 7 days.
Tablet treatment (ivermectin)
- Can be used in certain cases
- Often in cases of widespread scabies or if cream treatment is not effective
It is important that all members of the household or close contacts are treated at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms.
The itching may continue for several weeks after treatment, even though the mites are gone. This is due to the skin's reaction and does not necessarily mean that the treatment has not worked.
Prevention of infection
To prevent scabies from spreading or recurring, it is important to follow a few simple precautions:
Washing textiles
Clothes, bedding, and towels should be washed at a minimum of 60°C.
Avoid close contact until treatment
Close skin contact should be avoided until everyone has been treated.
Cleaning in the home
Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floors.
Textiles that cannot be washed
Can be stored in a sealed bag for at least 3 days to kill the mites.
Good hygiene and proper handling of all contacts are essential to stop the chain of infection.
When should you see a dermatologist?
You should consider contacting a dermatologist if:
- The itching is intense and especially worse at night.
- Several people in the household have itching or rashes
- Symptoms do not disappear after treatment
- The diagnosis is uncertain.
A dermatologist can make the correct diagnosis and ensure that the treatment is appropriate.
Advantages of choosing a private dermatologist
When you choose a private dermatologist, you get quick access to specialized assessment and treatment without long waiting times.
At Lægerne Danmark, we emphasize high professional standards and ample time for each individual patient. You will receive a thorough examination and advice on both treatment and prevention, so you can confidently move forward with your treatment.
Our dermatologists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including scabies, eczema, and other skin infections.
Book now
Make an appointment with our dermatologists today and receive a professional assessment and effective treatment for scabies.
You can choose between a physical consultation or a video consultation, so you can quickly get advice and guidance without having to show up in person.
Frequently asked questions about scabies
How is scabies transmitted?
Scabies is primarily transmitted through close and prolonged skin contact between people. This can occur, for example, between family members, partners, or people who live in close proximity for long periods of time. In rare cases, infection can occur via bedding, towels, or clothing.
What does scabies look like?
Scabies typically manifests as small red bumps, rashes, or fine, thin lines on the skin. The lines caused by the scabies mite can resemble small, twisted lines. The rash is often found between the fingers, on the wrists, elbows, armpits, around the navel, as well as on the buttocks and in the genital area.
How long does scabies itch after treatment?
Itching may continue for several weeks after treatment, even though the mites have been removed. This is due to the skin's reaction to the mites and their waste products. If the itching persists or worsens, you should contact a doctor.
Should the whole family be treated for scabies?
Yes. If one person in the household has scabies, it is usually recommended that everyone in the household be treated at the same time. This also applies to people without symptoms, as the disease can be contagious before the itching starts.
Can I have a video consultation?
Yes. At Lægerne Danmark, you can have a video consultation with our dermatologist if you suspect you have scabies. This allows you to get quick advice, an assessment of your symptoms, and guidance on treatment without having to physically visit the clinic.
