Scabies crustosa is a parasitic skin infection that causes severe itching and a papular rash. The spelling of this medical term can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈskeɪbiz kruːˈstoʊsə/. The word "scabies" is pronounced with a long A sound, as in "skate" (/skeɪ/), followed by a soft C sound (/sə/). "Crustosa" is pronounced with a hard C sound (/kruː/), and ends with the schwa sound (/stə/). Accurate spelling of medical terms is crucial for effective communication among healthcare professionals.
Scabies crustosa, also known as crusted scabies or Norwegian scabies, is a severe and highly contagious form of scabies infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This condition is characterized by an intense and widespread infestation of the skin, leading to the formation of thick, crusted, and scaly lesions that can cover large areas of the body.
The mite burrows into the skin, laying eggs and excreting feces, which triggers an allergic reaction in the affected individual. This results in severe itching and the formation of thick crusts due to the excessive proliferation of mites and the host's immune response. The crusts, often appearing grayish or yellowish in color, may occur in various body areas, including the hands, feet, scalp, face, and genitals.
Scabies crustosa is particularly common in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or the elderly, but it can also affect people with normal immune function. Due to its highly contagious nature, scabies crustosa can easily spread through direct and prolonged skin-to-skin contact.
Diagnosis of this condition usually involves clinical examination and identification of the characteristic crusted lesions, often accompanied by intense itching. Treatment typically consists of topical medications, such as permethrin or benzyl benzoate, as well as oral medications like ivermectin, administered in more severe cases. Additionally, affected individuals may need to undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection of clothing, bedding, and personal items to avoid reinfection or spreading the mites to others.
Boeck's itch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "scabies crustosa" originates from Latin and Greek.
- "Scabies" comes from the Latin word "scabere", meaning "to scratch".
- "Crustosa" is the feminine form of the Latin adjective "crustosus", meaning "encrusted" or "covered with crust".
Therefore, "scabies crustosa" refers to a specific type of scabies infection characterized by the formation of crusts on the skin due to intense itching and scratching.