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What Causes Constant Pruritus On The Body Despite Using Permethrin?

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Posted on Wed, 10 Aug 2016
Question: Finished 2nd tx 5%permithrin for body lice14 days ago....i work in Ltc facility...now in last 5 days very itchy , bleeding 5ml scabs mostly forearms but a few on back and thighs...are THESE dead lice emerging after tx?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (4 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Seems partially treated scabies, May need a repeat course of permetherin

Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic!
Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. We will try to help you in best way possible.

First of all, it is sad to know what you had gone through. Based on the history you have shared, it seems as if it is partially treated scabies or it has recurred. Bleeding sites can be the bleeding tunnels or furrows made by the parasite. If it isn't profuse, it will settle once the parasite is completed killed. A repeat course of permethrin therapy may be needed. If wounds are infected antibiotics cover may be needed along with anti-histamines for itching.

Ensure all the Bedding and clothing to be washed after keeping in hot water for at least one hour for three days and exposing them to bright sunlight to kill any larvae residing there.

Keep avoiding close contacts with other during the period. If the issue persists get a review by a dermatologist too.

Wishing you a speedy recovery. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Regards.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (16 hours later)
I am very mindful at work. Never touching pts/environ. W/0 precautions. I rotate work sneakers putting dated plastic bags in sunlight/heat, change all bed linen, towels, clothing daily( plastic covered matress/pillows,Auto seat) all dried very hot at least 40 mins....Question:I have a cat that snuggles in my arms frequently. Could this be the source of tranfer somehow? In any event, you have confirmed my fear. More dreaded weeks of tedious, time consuming hygienic/environ mania.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (7 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Optimal hygienic measures would be sufficient

Detailed Answer:
H! Thanks for the detailed feedback.

Well, all the measures you have mentioned are commendable however an optimal approach is necessary. Meaning that for a week of such approach would be sufficient, including the exposure to sunlight and changing linen frequently would limit it's spread and already shed larvae can be controlled to avoid re exposure.

The cat hair can also harbor the larvae shed as already explained by you if you had one previously, but if problem persists early referral to a dermatologist to rule out other diseases of skin spread through pets including fungal diseases should be ruled out after careful examination by a dermatologist.

Regards.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2011

Answered : 3941 Questions

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What Causes Constant Pruritus On The Body Despite Using Permethrin?

Brief Answer: Seems partially treated scabies, May need a repeat course of permetherin Detailed Answer: Hi! Welcome to health care magic! Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. We will try to help you in best way possible. First of all, it is sad to know what you had gone through. Based on the history you have shared, it seems as if it is partially treated scabies or it has recurred. Bleeding sites can be the bleeding tunnels or furrows made by the parasite. If it isn't profuse, it will settle once the parasite is completed killed. A repeat course of permethrin therapy may be needed. If wounds are infected antibiotics cover may be needed along with anti-histamines for itching. Ensure all the Bedding and clothing to be washed after keeping in hot water for at least one hour for three days and exposing them to bright sunlight to kill any larvae residing there. Keep avoiding close contacts with other during the period. If the issue persists get a review by a dermatologist too. Wishing you a speedy recovery. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Regards.