A forgotten parasitic infestation in an immunocompromised patient-a case report of crusted scabies

Abstract

Crusted scabies is a rare and highly contagious form of Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis infestation whose incidence may increase in the near future due to increasing use of immunosuppressive therapies and a general lack of awareness about the condition. It is misdiagnosed as psoriasis, irritant dermatitis or eczema. Delays in diagnosis lead to widespread transmission amongst contacts leading to potential community outbreak. Crusted scabies is extremely difficult to treat and there are growing concerns of possible resistance to current treatment. This case report describes a 44-year-old Ghanaian woman with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and diagnosed with skin scrapings. Treatment was initiated but the patient died from HIV related complications. Crusted scabies, though rare, should be an issue of global concern due to the potential for widespread dissemination. Adequate resources need to be channeled into scabies eradication as well as education of health personnel to promptly identify and treat cases.