What causes scabies?

Scabies is caused by a parasite known as Sarcoptes scabiei, which is a microscopic mite. This tiny organism burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash as an allergic reaction to the mites and their waste. The infestation is highly contagious, spreading through close physical contact and the sharing of personal items like clothing and bedding. Understanding that scabies is a condition caused by a parasitic mite helps clarify the nature of the infection and the methods of transmission, which is critical for effective treatment and prevention.

The other options represent different categories of organisms; bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can cause a variety of infections, fungi can lead to skin infections but are not responsible for scabies, and while mites may be considered insects in colloquial terms, in a scientific classification, scabies is specifically associated with a parasitic mite. This distinction emphasizes the necessity for precise terminology in the field of esthetics and dermatology when discussing skin conditions.