It is transmitted by skin to skin contact.
Symptoms are due to an associated skin hypersensitivity reaction.
Predominant symptom is generalised itch, which may be severe. Treatment includes application of scabicide to infected person and close contacts and washing of potentially contaminated clothing and bedding. In sexually active age groups, consider sexual transmission and investigation for other STIs. TOP OF PAGE Aetiology and epidemiology Scabies is caused by infestation with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei . It causes a skin infestation which commonly involved the genital areas, buttocks, lower abdomen, wrists, forearms and interdigital areas.