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Scabies
Test CodeSCABS
Alias/See Also
Sarcoptes Scabei, Skin mites, Scabies
CPT Codes
87220
Preferred Specimen
Skin Scraping
Instructions
NOTE: In the hospitals, this specimen is collected by a physician –the patient’s physician, a dermatologist, or the lab pathologist.
- Place a drop of mineral oil on a sterile scalpel blade.
- Allow some of oil to flow onto the papule.
- Scrape vigorously six or seven times to remove the top of the papule (There should be flecks of blood in the oil.).
- Transfer the oil and scraped material to a glass slide (can use an applicator stick).
- Add 1-2 extra drops of mineral oil to the slide, and stir the mixture. Any large clumps can be crushed to expose hidden mites.
- Place a coverslip on the slide. Transport the specimen to Microbiology with the following protocol:
- Seal the edge of the coverslip (all 4 sides) with fingernail polish so the mites cannot escape.
- Place slide inside cardboard 2-slide carrier that has the center divider removed.
- Tape edge of cardboard container closed so slide won’t fall out.
- Place slide holder into a specimen BIOHAZARD bag and “Ziplock” to close.
Setup Schedule
Sun.-Sat. 7 am-9 pm
Reference Range
Negative
Positive results are called to the ordering provider or RN and infection control.
Positive results are called to the ordering provider or RN and infection control.
Clinical Significance
Sarcoptes scabei also known as the itch mite, is an arthropod that invades the superficial skin layer, never below the epidermis. Preferred site is interdigital spaces, but may be found also on back of the hand, elbows, groin, back, buttocks and other sites. The outstanding symptom is intense itching.
Scabies is a highly contagious infestation where transmission can occur through person-to-person direct skin contact or by fomites. It can be a cause of nosocomial epidemic.
Diagnosis can be confirmed by demonstration of the mites, eggs, or scybala (fecal pellets). Because the mites are located under the surface of the skin, scrapings must be made from the infected area.
Scabies is a highly contagious infestation where transmission can occur through person-to-person direct skin contact or by fomites. It can be a cause of nosocomial epidemic.
Diagnosis can be confirmed by demonstration of the mites, eggs, or scybala (fecal pellets). Because the mites are located under the surface of the skin, scrapings must be made from the infected area.
Performing Laboratory
CRMC Microbiology
