Acarus scabiei is a species of mite that causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infection. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Acarus" is pronounced /əˈkɑːrəs/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Scabiei" is pronounced /skəˈbiːi/, with the stress on the first syllable. The letter "c" in "scabiei" is pronounced like "ch" in "cherry". Understanding the phonetic transcription can help with the accurate pronunciation and spelling of scientific names like Acarus scabiei.
Acarus scabiei, commonly known as the scabies mite, is a microscopic parasitic arachnid that infests the skin of humans and animals. It belongs to the family Sarcoptidae and is the causative agent of scabies, a highly contagious skin condition characterized by intense itching and a distinctive rash.
These mites are barely visible to the naked eye, measuring about 0.3 to 0.4 millimeters in length. They have an oval-shaped body with a wrinkled appearance and possess eight legs. Acarus scabiei has adapted to survive and reproduce on the host's skin, burrowing into the upper layers to create tunnels where they lay their eggs.
Transmission of Acarus scabiei commonly occurs through direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infested individual. The mites can also survive temporarily on objects such as clothing, bedding, or furniture, allowing for indirect transmission. Once in contact with a host, the mites quickly burrow into the skin, usually choosing warm and moist areas like the folds of the wrists, elbows, and genitals.
The presence of Acarus scabiei causes the host's immune system to react, leading to intense itching and the development of small, red bumps and blisters. These symptoms typically worsen at night, disrupting sleep patterns. Scratching the affected areas excessively can lead to secondary bacterial infections.
Treatment for scabies involves the use of prescription medications, such as topical creams or oral medications, that kill the mites and their eggs. Additionally, thorough cleaning of clothing, bedding, and household items is essential to prevent re-infestation.
Overall, Acarus scabiei are highly specialized and adaptable parasitic mites that cause the infectious skin condition known as scabies, necessitating
Sarcoptes scabiei.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term Acarus scabiei can be broken down as follows:
- Acarus is derived from the Greek word akaros, which means mite or tiny bug. This term has its roots in the Greek word akari, meaning mite or earworm.
- Scabiei is the genitive form of the Latin word scabies, which translates to itch or scabies. It is derived from the verb scabere, meaning to scratch or to scrape.
Therefore, Acarus scabiei can be understood to mean the mite that causes scabies.