Scabies is an infestation of the skin by tiny mites, too small to be seen macroscopically. Skin scrapings taken from trailing burrows (some with black specks) are submitted to the laboratory for microscopic examination.
Collection and Submission to the Laboratory
Skin scrapings are usually collected at the bedside.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the following:
- Place a drop of mineral oil on a sterile scalpel blade. Scrape a newly-developed papule vigorously six or seven times to remove the top of the papule. Transfer the scraping mixed with oil to a glass slide, then place a second glass slide over the first.
- Rubber-band the two slides together, placing them into a screw-cap container for transport to the laboratory.
- Alternatively, place dry scrapings in a sterile screw-cap container, then transport them to the laboratory.
- 10%-20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) may be used in place of the oil - if the provider plans to perform the microscopic examination in the office setting.
- If the skin scrapings are to be sent to an off-site reference laboratory, check the laboratory's requirements. Scrapings may be placed in vials of alcohol before transport.
