Clinical diagnosis and treatment of scabies, a neglected tropical disease.

Hendrick M Motswaledi

doi:10.4102/safp.v63i1.5224

Abstract

Scabies is a parasitic infestation of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. It is common in tropical areas, including the sub-tropical areas of Southern Africa. Predisposing factors are overcrowding, poor personal hygiene, low socio-economic standards and impaired host immunity. Although it can occur at any age, scabies is commonly seen in children and young adults. It is not a fatal disease; however, it can cause severe morbidity and poor quality of life. Scabies can complicate with pyoderma which may result in post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. There are two clinical variants, classic scabies and the much rarer crusted scabies (Norwegian scabies).

Highlights

The term ‘scabies’ is derived from the Latin word ‘scabere’ meaning to scratch.[1]
Scabies is a parasitic infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis.[2]
In 2013, scabies was recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the neglected tropical diseases of public health importance.[5,6]

Summary

Introduction

The term ‘scabies’ is derived from the Latin word ‘scabere’ meaning to scratch.[1]. Scabies is a parasitic infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis.[2]. Once the human skin is infested, female mites burrow into the stratum corneum of the epidermis.

Results

Conclusion