Rx Note

Introduction Scabies is an intensely itchy skin condition, especially at night, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei . The diagnostic burrows are small (0.5-1.5 cm grey irregular tracks) and scratching often makes them difficult to see. The mite is transmitted by direct physical contact (e.g. holding hands, hugging or sexual contact), although transmission through casual contact like shaking hands is unlikely. Occasionally, scabies is acquired via bedding or furnishings. Scabies typically affects the finger webs, sides of the fingers and wrists . In adults, it rarely affects the scalp and face, but in children aged 2 years or under and the elderly, the head is more common affected, especially the area behind the ear. Management All household members and close contacts of the affected individual should be treated simultaneously , even in the absence of symptoms. Because the incubation period of the scabies mites is 3 weeks and the itch of scabies may take up to 8 weeks to develop,...

Introduction Infestation by head lice ( Pediculus humanus capitis ) can occur at any time of the year and is mostly transmitted by head-to-head contact . It is most prevalent in children aged 4 to 11 years, especially girls. Clinical Features Many cases of head lice infestation are asymptomatic . Pruritus (intense itchiness) resulting from sensitisation to louse salivary or faecal antigens is the most common symptom (seen in approximately one third of patients). Persistent scratching can cause lesions, and this can give rise to secondary infections or swollen lymph glands or both. Observation of live lice is diagnostic. Head lice are 1-4 mm long, and their colour ranges from nearly colourless (when they hatch) to reddish brown (after feeding). NOTE: It should be remembered that an itching scalp in children is not always due to head lice. Inspection of the scalp should be made to check for signs of dandruff , psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis . Checking For Infection Wet combing of...