Incidence of larval and adult mite [Sarcoptes scabiei] stages in scabietic pateints from three regions of Qalyobia governorate

ABSTRACT

Human scabies is a highly contagious infestation caused by the itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Although it is not a life threatening condition, yet it may be considered important because some cases may be complicated by post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Understanding of the conditions affecting the life cycle of Sarcoptes scabiei is essential for prevention of its transmission in the community. Scrapings from the affected skin were prepared from scabietic patients attending the local pharmacies for buying medicine prescribed by physicians in private clinics, or asking advice from the pharmacist, through-out the months of the year. Statistical analysis of the data revealed a high correlation between the number of patients, and the mean number of adult and larval stages of S. scabiei. In cold months, more patients, mostly children [70%] were infested by a larger number of larvae and adult mites