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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/2471.htm

Scabies mite, eggs, and stool photomicrograph

Scabies mite, eggs, and stool photomicrograph

Overview

This is a photomicrograph of a skin scraping that contains a scabies mite, eggs, and feces. This animal burrows into the skin, depositing both eggs and feces. A scabies infestation causes intense itching (pruritus) which leads to scratching and damage of the skin (excoriation). If left untreated, the infestation may last for years, and has been called the "seven year itch".

Review Date 10/11/2023

Updated by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.