A 32-year-old female is suffering from scabies due to sarcoptic. Physician prescribed her the following drug
**Core Concept**
Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, leading to intense itching, small burrows, and vesicular lesions. The treatment involves killing the mites and their eggs with antiscabetic medications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct treatment for scabies due to Sarcoptes scabiei is permethrin 5% cream applied from the neck down and washed off after 8-14 hours. This medication works by disrupting the nervous system of the mite through its action on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, ultimately leading to its death. Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid, which is a derivative of the natural insecticide pyrethrum.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Ivermectin is an alternative treatment for scabies but is typically used in cases of resistance to permethrin or in patients with crusted scabies. It works by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the mite's nervous system.
**Option B:** Lindane is an older treatment for scabies but is less effective and carries a higher risk of neurotoxicity due to its action on the central nervous system.
**Option C:** Sulfur is an older antiscabetic medication that has largely been replaced by permethrin due to its unpleasant odor and lower efficacy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating scabies, it's essential to treat all close contacts simultaneously to prevent re-infestation. Additionally, permethrin should be applied to all areas of the body from the neck down, including the scalp, face, and genital areas.
**Correct Answer:** C.