Crusted scabies: a case report and review of the literature

Crusted (Norwegian) scabies, a highly contagious variant of classical scabies, has traditionally been associated with mentally retarded and physically debilitated patients. Recent reports have increasingly linked scabies with immunosuppression, as in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and in transplant recipients. Lesions may mimic those of a wide variety of skin diseases. The patient presented is a 41-year old male with signs of systemic illness and atypical dermatitis. This case illustrates the pitfalls in recognition of crusted scabies and the importance of rapid diagnosis. Diagnostic technique and treatment are briefly reviewed.