How to Treat Crusted Scabies

Crusted scabies, also known as Norwegian scabies, is a type of scabies that is resistant to treatment. Scabies is a skin condition caused by a very small mite that creates itchy skin and a rash. Crusted scabies is much more severe and is found mostly in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with AIDS or the elderly. Large areas of the skin are scaly and crusted. The crusts contain thousands of mites. Normal topical medication may not work because the skin is too crusted for penetration. It is not easy, but there are some treatments that may bring relief for those suffering from this skin disorder. Do not begin any treatment without consulting your physician.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Antihistamine
• Antibiotic if prescribed
• Permethrin topical ointment if prescribed
• Ivermectin if prescribed

Treating crusted scabies

1. Rule out other skin conditions before treating for crusted scabies. This will happen at your doctor's visit.

2. Follow your dermatologist's prescriptions completely, as this condition is very prone to relapse, and it will take trial and error to find what works.

3. Ask your doctor about starting with a topical agent. The usual ointment is permethrin. This should be applied at night over entire body below the neck. Make sure to apply to nail beds, navel, under breasts, and anywhere there is a crease that might be overlooked. Wash it off in the morning.

4. Ask your doctor about the medication ivermectin if the topical is not successful. Since it is a prescription medication, you will need her assistance. This medication is not approved for the use on scabies by FDA currently; it is usually reserved specifically for only this resistant to treatment type of scabies. It is effective in many cases of crusted scabies, but it may take more than one round of treatment.

5. Take any antibiotic your doctor prescribes. This is for any secondary infection that may occur. Take it as prescribed. Finish the whole prescription.

6. Take antihistamines for the itching. Scabies can cause severe itching. Antihistamines can help alleviate this symptom.

7. Crusted scabies is very contagious. In order to not spread it to others or back to yourself, wash your clothes, sheets, towels, and pillows in hot, soapy water. Vacuum your whole house. Put any items not washable in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. The mites die if they do not eat within a week.

8. Advise anybody you or those living in your house have come in contact with of the chance they may have contacted crusted scabies. Encourage them to seek treatment and to take measures to contain the mites (washing the clothes, vacuuming and sealed bags).

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to work with your medical provider to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment. Follow through on all treatments suggested. It may take time, but there is relief.

References

• Information on Crusted Scabies

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