Sarcoptes scabiei is an animal that belongs to the phylum of the arthropods, specifically to the family Sarcoptidae. It is characterized by its globose body and by having very small, almost atrophied legs.
This species was described for the first time by the Swedish biologist Charles De Geer in 1778. It is currently known that within this species there are some varieties, about 8 approximately. Each variety parasitizes a specific mammal.
Sarcoptes scabiei. Source: Alan R Walker / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)
This is a mite that is parasitic in life. Its main host is humans and it is responsible for a pathology known as scabies, the main symptom of which is intense itching.
characteristics
Prevention
Since the transmission of Sarcoptes scabiei is based on direct contact between people, as well as the use of personal implements, preventive measures are oriented towards this.
First of all, the first thing to avoid is sharing clothing, towels, and sheets with other people, especially if someone is known to be infected with this mite.
Likewise, if someone you know has been diagnosed with scabies, it is important to avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with this person. It is also important to wash all clothing in water that is hot enough so that you can kill the parasite.
References
- Brusca, RC & Brusca, GJ, (2005). Invertebrates, 2nd edition. McGraw-Hill-Interamericana, Madrid
- Campillos, M., Causín, S., Duro, E., Agudo, S., Martínez, S. and Sánchez, J. (2002). Scabies: review and update. Medifam 12.
- Carretero, J., Giménez, R. and Robles, M. (2000). Scabies: review and therapeutic update. MC 2000 7 (7)
- Cordero, M., Rojo, F. and Martínez, A. (1999). Veterinary parasitology. McGraw-Hill
- Curtis, H., Barnes, S., Schneck, and Massarini, A. (2008). Biology. Editorial Médica Panamericana. 7th edition.
- Prieto, G. (1976). Dermatology. 8th edition. Madrid: Scientific - Medical
- Hickman, CP, Roberts, LS, Larson, A., Ober, WC, & Garrison, C. (2001). Integrated principles of zoology (Vol. 15). McGraw-Hill.