Possible Parasite

[MPatterson]

For the last few days I have experienced moderate itch on the bottom of my left foot.  The itch is confined to a 1.5" diameter area, with no discoloration, and seems to be surrounding a raised section of flesh that appears to be a small worm.  I haven't seen it move and I'm not positive that that's what it is but it's just under the skin, whiter than the rest of the skin and .25" long.  It looks like a little white line or a scar but I don't recall it being there before.  After walking for a while, it feels like something's burrowing into my skin in the general area this things exists in.  I don't remember getting bitten in that area or having any sore present before the itching started.  Does anyone have any idea what this might be?  I'm not sure whether to go to the doctor or give it a few days.  Any advice would be appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be scabies or some fungal infection. It is an infestation of the skin with the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. It is characterized by intense itching, usually at night and by small insect-type bites lesions on the skin. Diagnosis of scabies is made by scraping the skin and viewing the material under a microscope to see the characteristic mite or eggs.

I sincerely suggest you to get it evaluated from a dermatologist and get scabies ruled out.

I hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[MPatterson]

Thank you for the information.  However, I'm fairly positive this isn't scabies.  There is no rash, no discoloration and the itching is mild to moderate and disappears at times.  It doesn't seem to make a difference what time of day it is.  It also does not appear to be fungal either.  It looks like a small worm is just below the skin.  I haven't been able to find any skin parasites that live in the states though.  I'll make an appointment.  Thank you for your help.