What condition is characterized by itching due to mites, with a life cycle of 2-3 weeks?

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Scabies is a condition caused by infestation with the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This condition is indeed characterized by severe itching, which occurs as a result of the body's allergic reaction to the mites and their waste. The life cycle of these mites is typically about 2-3 weeks, during which they burrow into the skin, leading to redness, irritation, and intense itching.

The key features of scabies include the presence of burrows in the skin, which are often found in webbed spaces between fingers, on wrists, elbows, and other areas. The contagious nature of scabies and its association with close contact further highlight its significance in public health.

In contrast, myiasis refers to the infestation of the body by fly larvae, lice are parasites that infest hair and scalp but do not have the same life cycle or skin irritation patterns as scabies, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is a tick-borne illness that causes systemic symptoms rather than localized itching associated with parasites. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why scabies is the correct answer in the context of this question.

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