A contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite, which burrows under the skin.

• A. Scabies
• B. Pediculosis Capitis
• C. Tinea corporis
• D. Impetigo

Answer: (A)

This question tests the ability to identify a contagious skin disease caused by an itch mite that burrows under the skin. The defining feature is that a mite tunnels into the epidermis, producing intense itching and a rash that can appear in web spaces and other areas.

The correct choice is scabies. It arises from the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei, which penetrates the skin to lay eggs, causing persistent itching (often worse at night) and a pimple-like rash or burrow tracks. Transmission happens through close contact and can spread via contaminated towels, linens, or clothing, which is a key concern in salons and spas.

Why the other options don’t fit: head lice infestation involves live lice and nits on hair rather than burrowing under the skin; it causes scalp itching but not skin burrows. A fungal infection like ringworm forms circular, scaly patches rather than burrows under the skin. Impetigo is a bacterial infection with crusty, honey-colored lesions, not a mite-driven process.

In a salon setting, identifying potential scabies means isolating contaminated items, laundering linens at high temperatures, disinfecting surfaces and nonporous tools, and ensuring the client seeks medical treatment before returning to services, to prevent spread.