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27-03-2024 | Scabies | Review

Scabies in infants and children – a narrative review

Authors: Anca Chiriac, Adriana Diaconeasa, Raluca Miulescu, Anca E. Chiriac, Uwe Wollina

Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 6/2024

Abstract

Scabies is a human ectoparasitosis caused by Sarcoptes scabei var. hominis. World-wide around 300 million patients are affected. Infants and children have the highest incidence rates. Poverty and overcrowding are social factors contributing to a higher risk of transmission and treatment failure. The leading symptom of the infestation is itch. Complications are bacterial infections that are responsible for mortality. Diagnosis is clinical. Non-invasive imaging technologies like dermoscopy can be used. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is less sensitive and specific than microscopy of skin scrapings. Treatment of choice is topical permethrin 5%. Ivermectin is the only oral drug FDA-approved for scabies. It should be used in cases non-responsive to topical therapy and in case of high number of infested patients in addition to topical therapy. Pseudo-resistance to treatment is not uncommon. New drugs are on the horizon.

What is Known: • Pruritus is the leading symptom causing sleep disturbances and scratching with the risk of secondary bacterial infections. • Treatment failure is related to inappropriate application of topical drugs and asymptomatic family members.
What is New: • COVID-19 pandemic and migration are contributing to an increased incidence of scabies. • New compounds to treat scabies are on the horizon.

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Title: Scabies in infants and children – a narrative review
Authors: Anca Chiriac
Adriana Diaconeasa
Raluca Miulescu
Anca E. Chiriac
Uwe Wollina
Publication date: 27-03-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Scabies
Mites
Ivermectin
Pruritus
Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 6/2024
Print ISSN: 0340-6199
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1076
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-024-05535-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Scabies in infants and children – a narrative review

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

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