Scabies commonly presents as a red rash with small bumps that often form a line.

Other symptoms of scabies include itching, blistering, and scaling.

In this article, you’ll find pictures of scabies rashes to help you identify it.

Scabies infection on hands

Taofeeq Abdulkareem / Wikicommons /CC BY-SA 4.0

It will also cover the symptoms and causes of scabies and how to prevent and treat it.

This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.

Taofeeq Abdulkareem / Wikicommons /CC BY-SA 4.0

What Does Scabies Look Like?

scabies on hand

Raimo Suhonen /DermNet/ CC BY-NC-ND

A scabies rash can look slightly different from person to person but has some common features.

Itching may be so bad scratching breaks the skin and makes the skin appear redder and more inflamed.

Burrows

Scabies mites are tiny parasites.

Scabies

DermNet /CC BY-NC-ND

These minute tunnels may appear like lines on the surface of your skin.

They sometimes have a grayish tint or vary in color from your natural skin tone.

In some people, particularly young children, a scabies rash may involve pus-filled bumps.

you’re able to also have scabies in multiple areas.

Other Symptoms

How do you know its scabies?

People with crusted scabies may also have open sores.

Causes

The human itch mite causes scabies rash.

you’ve got the option to get scabies via skin-to-skin contact with someone who has scabies.

Crusted scabies occurs in people with a weakened immune system.

This can allow the mites to proliferate without control.

Youre at higher risk for crusted scabies if you:

Is Scabies Contagious?

This skin condition is highly contagious but requires skin-to-skin contact.

The crusted form of scabies is even more contagious.

Diagnosing Scabies

A healthcare provider can diagnose scabies by visually examining your skin for lines or burrows.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

There’s no at-home test for scabies.

If you think you have scabies or some other itchy skin condition, see a healthcare provider right away.

If it is scabies, youll need a prescription treatment.

What Can Be Mistaken for Scabies?

These are prescription lotions or creams that are applied to the skin.

You cant treat it with at-home or over-the-counter (OTC) remedies.

Your healthcare provider may also prescribe medications to help with symptoms like itching or infection due to constant scratching.

Prevention

Treating scabies rash is an important part of preventing the spread of these mites.

If you dont have a rash, you cant transmit it to someone else.

It can also cause severe itching.

You need a prescription to treat this skin condition and cant treat it with home remedies.

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