Which condition is characterized by intense itching and linear markings on the skin, indicating a possible infestation?

The condition characterized by intense itching and linear markings on the skin, indicating a possible infestation, is scabies. Scabies is caused by an infestation of the skin by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This mite burrows into the skin, leading to intense pruritus (itching) and a characteristic rash that often appears as linear burrows or tracks on the surface of the skin. The intense itching is usually worse at night, which is a hallmark sign of this condition.

The linear markings, or burrows, are created by the female mite as it tunnels into the stratum corneum of the skin to lay eggs. Areas commonly affected include the webs of the fingers, wrists, elbows, axillae, buttocks, and genitalia, typically sparing the head in adults. The diagnosis of scabies is typically confirmed through the identification of the mite, eggs, or fecal matter in skin scrapings from the burrows.

In contrast, pediculosis is caused by lice infestation, folliculitis is an inflammation of hair follicles often due to bacteria or fungi, and impetigo is a contagious skin infection usually caused by staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria. While these conditions may present with itching and some