[Management of scabies in long term care facilities]

Regularly, cases of scabies are diagnosed. Old institutionalized persons with depressed immunity are particularly sensitive to this type of infestation. Scabies is an ectoparasitose related to Sarcoptes scabiei. Clinical picture can be highly variable depending of the type of scabies (typical scabies, profuse one or norvegian scabies). Even if the etiologic agent is the same, each type has its own characteristics and is different as far as the contagiosity is concerned. Diagnostic of scabies can be difficult due to atypical lesions. Delayed diagnostic, particularly in collectivities of old persons may be the cause of outbreaks that can be difficult to manage, are costly and very unpleasant for the patients and caregivers. The different types of treatment (local or sytemic) are discussed as well as rules to be take into account for prevention.