Burrow
Burrow (medical)
Burrow (pronounced: /ˈbʌroʊ/) is a term used in dermatology to describe a type of skin lesion. It is most commonly associated with scabies, a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite.
Etymology
The term 'burrow' originates from the Middle English word 'burgh', which means a fortified town. In the context of dermatology, it refers to the tunnel-like structures created by the mites under the skin.
Description
A burrow appears as a small, linear or serpiginous track in the skin, often accompanied by intense itching. It is typically 2-10mm long, but can be longer. The burrow is the path taken by the female mite as she tunnels under the skin surface, laying eggs as she goes.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of burrows is typically made through a physical examination of the skin. The presence of burrows is a key diagnostic feature of scabies. A dermatoscope can be used to visualize the burrows more clearly. In some cases, a skin scraping may be taken to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for burrows involves treating the underlying cause, which is typically a scabies infestation. This usually involves the use of topical scabicides and sometimes oral medications. It is also important to treat all close contacts to prevent re-infestation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Burrow
- Wikipedia's article - Burrow
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