Scabies, Head lice & Thread Worms

Insectisicidal

What are the three main topics discussed under infestations in the lecture?

Scabies, head lice, and threadworms.

What is the cause of scabies?

Scabies is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.

What is the incubation period for symptoms of scabies after infection?

Up to six weeks.

What is the main symptom associated with scabies?

Severe itching (pruritus) that often worsens at night.

diffused and non localised.

typically around webs of the fingers and wrists.

look like blue-grey lines on the skin.

Where does the scabies mite typically burrow on the body?

In the stratum corneum of the skin.

What questions to ask for scabies?

are there any visible signs of the mite?

where is the rash located?

history of the rash-is it recurring?

is the patient being looked after by instutionlised people?

do any other family members have scabies or similar rash?

is there history of traveling to developing countries?

What are the conditions to eliminate?

Allergic Contact Dermatits- Straight line rashes from something that made contact with the skin

Dermitits herpetiformis- itchy clusters around buttocks, elbows and knees. they have symettrical distribution and do not affect the hands (unlike scabeis)

Dishydrotic Eczema- presence of intensely itchy vesicles on the palms, fingers, and soles of the feet.

triggered by sweating or stress.

inect bites- blisters are in groups and are asymmetrical

itchy papule that can become hard and then become blisters

can become infected

What is the 3 lines of treatment for scabies?

1. Permethrin (Lyclear)

2. benzyle benzonate (if they are allergic to Permethrin)

3. Anti-histamies

How many days after initial treatment should scabies treatment be repeated?

Seven days.

What type of lice is referenced in the lecture?

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis).

What is the method used to confirm a head lice infestation?

Wet combing.

What are nits in relation to head lice?

Nits are the eggshells of hatched lice, attached to hair shafts.

What is the common treatment for threadworm infestation?

Mebendazole.

What is a common side effect of the drug mebendazole?

Abdominal pain or diarrhea.

How should personal hygiene be managed to prevent threadworm reinfestation?

Keep nails short and clean, and wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet.

What are red flag symptoms that would indicate the need for a doctor's referral for scabies?

Severe symptoms, persistent infection despite treatment, signs of secondary bacterial infections.

What is the prevalence of scabies in Aboriginal communities?

Higher prevalence, with around 50% of children affected.

What does 'pruritus' mean?

Itchy skin.

How long does it take for head lice eggs to hatch?

Six to nine days.

What are common signs of head lice infestation?

Itchy scalp, presence of live lice, and nits on hair.

What should be done with bedding in cases of head lice infestation?

Pillowcases should be washed, but washing all bedding is often unnecessary.

What treatment can be used for patients who are allergic to permethrin?

Benzyl benzoate.

What is the purpose of washing clothes and linen at 50 degrees after treating for scabies?

To prevent reinfection and transmission to others.

Why is it important to treat all household contacts of a person with scabies?

To prevent reinfection, as contacts may be asymptomatic carriers.

What lifestyle advice can help prevent head lice transmission?

Avoid sharing hats, brushes, and other personal items.

What is the significance of treatment failure in head lice?

Indicates potential insecticide resistance or improper application of treatment.

What is the recommended dosage of mebendazole for adults and children over two years?

100 mg as a single dose.

How long after the first mebendazole treatment should a repeat dose be administered for threadworm?

14 days.