A dilemma: bullous-pemphigoid-like eruption in scabies or scabies-induced bullous pemphigoid

Abstract

Several diseases may be confused with scabies. Atypical manifestations of scabies have previously been reported, including urticaria, contact dermatitis, and dermatitis herpetiformis. There are also reports of scabies mimicking bullous pemphigoid. Here we report a case of scabies in a patient with manifestation similar to bullous pemphigoid. Direct smear of the bullous lesions was performed and was positive for scabies mites. The skin biopsy specimens submitted for light microscopy and direct immunofluorescence study were considered to be compatible with bullous pemphigoid. The patient treated with single dose oral ivermectin and prednisolone. The pruritus subsided and the eruption improved dramatically in 2 weeks.