Scabies Norwegian Associated With High IgE and Low IgG1 Levels Presenting as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Norwegian type scabies is a severe skin infestation which has been described in both immunosuppressed and immunocompetent people. We report a case of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) presenting as Norwegian scabies in a malnourished patient who had exceedingly high levels of serum IgE and low IgG 1. The CD(4) count was normal but the ratio CD(4)/CD(8) was decreased as a result of an increased CD(8) count. The extensive skin disease which led to the diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus was unresponsive to treatment until the SLE was properly controlled by therapy. The possible relationship between high IgE and low IgG1 levels and Norwegian scabies is discussed in the context of systemic lupus erythematosus.