Clinical diagnosis and treatment of scabies, a neglected tropical disease

Hendrick M. Motswaledi*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

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).

Original languageEnglish
Article numbera5224
JournalSouth African Family Practice
Volume63
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Ivermectin
  • Non-fatal disease
  • Permethrin
  • Pyoderma
  • Scabies, sarcoptes scabiei

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