 the scabies mite sarcoptes scabiei is an ectoparasite that burrows into the upper layer of the skin and deposits eggs the most common symptoms of scabies are intense itching and a pimple like skin rash an exposed individual can be infectious to others even in the absence of symptoms scabies can spread rapidly including in healthcare facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals causing outbreaks which can be difficult to control if not caught early crusted scabies is a severe form of scabies that can occur in some persons who are immunocompromised elderly disabled or debilitated crusted scabies may be associated with atypical signs or symptoms and is highly contagious persons with crusted scabies should receive quick and aggressive medical treatment for their infestation to prevent outbreaks of scabies 