
Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) – Scrapings
Testing Indications
The PHO laboratory will no longer identify Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) from a non-human source. These Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) should be referred to the Pest Diagnostic Clinic at the University of Guelph.
The following arthropods will continue to be identified at PHO laboratory.
- suspected lice fleas, bedbugs, maggots or mites removed from a human or vicinity
Specimen Requirements
Test Requested | Required Requisition(s) | Specimen Type | Minimum Volume | Collection Kit |
Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) ID1 |
Scraping of skin at track margins |
N/A |
Screw capped jar with 70% ethanol |
Submission and Collection Notes
The suspected organism may be included under the ‘Test Description’.
Indicate site of collection and any relevant clinical information for the patient.
Storage and Transport
Place specimen in a container and place in a biohazard bag and seal. Ensure that the container is labelled with the patient's full name and one other unique identifier such as date of birth or health card number, and that it matches the information on the requisition.
Special Instructions
Use flat edge of scalpel or tongue depressor (if skin is very flaky).
The PHO laboratories will not identify arthropods from a non-human source. These arthropods should be referred to the Pest diagnostic Clinic at the University of Guelph.
The following arthropods will be identified at PHO laboratories.
- ticks removed from a human
- suspected lice, fleas, bedbugs, maggots or mites removed from a human
Ensure that identification of the source/host is indicated on the container and requisition.
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