The current available diagnostic tools and treatments of scabies and scabies variants: An updated narrative review

Abstract

Scabies is a neglected tropical disease that continues to have global impacts and long-term health consequences. It is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabei var. hominis, which is an obligate ectoparasite that lives in the epidermis of the human skin. Scabies is common in poor communities due to overcrowding in places like old age homes, prisons, and homeless and displaced children. However, developed countries are also susceptible to scabies infestations, such as in institutional outbreaks or small epidemics under war conditions or during natural disasters. The diagnosis of scabies may be assisted by invasive and noninvasive tools; However, the history and examination findings are usually adequate to confirm the clinical suspicion. Here, we present an updated review of scabies by focusing on the diagnostic approaches, treatment, and prevention of scabies.

Figure 1.

(A) Papulo-nodular and impetigo lesions on the leg of a 15-yr-old patient. (B) Scabies lesions affecting the leg with large erosions and scratches in a 40-yr-old male patient who applied an unknown topical treatment. (C) Numerous erythematous papules on the trunk of a 35-yr-old pregnant woman. (D) Nail scabies that presents as onycholysis of nail plates in a 2-mo-old infant. (E) Multiple crusted papules on the soles of the same 2-mo-old infant. (F) Nodules on the dorsal hand of scabies patient that persist after treatment.