What is scabies?

Scabies is a contagious skin condition that is caused by an infestation of the itch mite, specifically Sarcoptes scabiei. This microscopic mite burrows into the skin, causing intense itching and a rash as the immune system reacts to the presence of the mite and its eggs. The transmission occurs through direct skin-to-skin contact, and it can spread easily in crowded conditions or through contaminated clothing and bedding.

The other options describe different medical concepts that do not apply to scabies. For instance, an epidermal growth caused by a virus refers more closely to warts, while a type of skin graft involves the surgical transfer of skin from one area to another. Additionally, a method of chemical exfoliation pertains to dermatological treatments for improving skin texture and appearance, which is unrelated to the parasitic infestation that characterizes scabies. Understanding scabies in this context highlights the importance of recognizing contagious diseases and their modes of transmission in medical practice.