Sarcoptic

Sarcoptic is an adjective used in biology and medicine to describe things related to the mite genus Sarcoptes or to diseases caused by these mites. The most common usages refer to sarcoptic mange in animals and scabies in humans.

Mites of the genus Sarcoptes are small, oval arachnids in the family Sarcoptidae. The species Sarcoptes scabiei is the principal parasite of humans and many mammals, with host-adapted strains described in domestic animals and wildlife. The life cycle occurs in the stratum corneum and typically lasts about two weeks; mites burrow to lay eggs.

Transmission is mainly by prolonged close contact; fomites can contribute in crowded settings. In humans, sarcoptic infestation causes intense itching and a papular eruption with burrows, often on finger webs, wrists, and elbows. In animals, mange presents with pruritus, crusting, alopecia, and thickened skin.

Diagnosis relies on skin scrapings showing mites, eggs, or feces, though sensitivity varies; dermoscopy or PCR can aid in uncertain cases. Treatment uses topical acaricides such as permethrin or oral ivermectin, usually given to the patient and close contacts, plus cleaning of bedding and clothing.

Etymology: Sarcoptes derives from Greek words for flesh (sarx) and cutting (kopto) in reference to the mite's burrowing habit. The terms sarcoptic mange and sarcoptic dermatitis are used in veterinary and medical contexts.