Scabies mites are parasites that burrow into and lay their eggs in the upper layer of human skin.
Scabies is treatable and not usually a cause for concern.
However, in people who areimmunocompromised, the infestation can become severe and difficult to treat.
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Crusted Scabies Symptoms
Symptoms of crusted scabies are often similar to regularscabiesbut are more severe.
Some people may only experience crusting without other symptoms, however.
In some people, intense itching can trigger scratching that causes an infection.
It can take up to eight weeks to notice symptoms if youve never had scabies before.
If youve previously had scabies, symptoms may appear sooner.
Crusted scabies is even more contagious because crusts of skin may fall off a persons body.
Mites can live for up to three days off the human body.
Treatment
Medical treatment is necessary to get rid of scabies and crusted scabies.
Treatment can be difficult because thick crusts make it tougher for the skin to absorb topical medications.
This is why healthcare providers usually treat crusted scabies with a combination of topical and oral medications.
Doctors will often prescribe oralivermectin, an antiparasitic and topical medication, for people with severe scabies.
In some people, multiple doses of the medication may be necessary to kill the mites and cure scabies.
With treatment, people will see a reduction in symptoms in about four weeks.
Some people, especially those with crusted scabies, will require repeat treatments to kill off the mites completely.
Crusted scabies is harder to treat than regular scabies because there are so many mites.
The thickened and crusted skin may not absorb medication well.
Many people with crusted scabies will need multiple rounds of treatment to eliminate the mites.
A Word From Verywell
Crusted scabies can be very uncomfortable, but the mites arent typically dangerous.
The biggest issue is the potential for infection due to scratching.
Get in touch with a healthcare provider as soon as you notice potential signs of scabies.
Untreated, the condition will get worse, and only medical treatments can get rid of scabies mites.
The people around you might benefit from treatment, too.
Chandler DJ, Fuller LC.A review of scabies: An infestation more than skin deep.Dermatology.
2019;235:79-90. doi:10.1159/000495290
American Academy of Dermatology.Scabies: signs and symptoms.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Scabies frequently asked questions (FAQs).
American Academy of Dermatology.Scabies: who gets and causes.
American Academy of Dermatology.Scabies: diagnosis and treatment.
