Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 29, 2026
Application of Lucilia sericata Larvae in Debridement of Pressure Wounds in Outpatient Settings
Published on: December 4, 2021
[Therapeutic failure in scabies: An observational study]
B De Sainte Marie1, S Mallet1, C Gaudy-Marqueste1
1UMR 911, Inserm CRO2, centre de recherche en oncologie biologique et oncopharmacologie, service de dermatologie, hôpital Timone, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Aix-Marseille université, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13385 Marseille, France.
Persistent scabies cases in France highlight treatment challenges. Key factors include inadequate contact tracing, missed follow-up treatments, and potential medication resistance, necessitating improved patient education and effective therapies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Reports indicate a growing incidence of scabies infestations in France.
- Understanding factors contributing to treatment resistance is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize patients with persistent scabies infections despite multiple treatment attempts.
- To identify factors associated with the failure of scabies treatments.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted.
- Patients included adults and children with scabies resistant to at least one prior treatment.
- A questionnaire assessed potential reasons for treatment failure.
Main Results:
- Thirty-one patients were analyzed, with symptoms present for a mean of 19 weeks.
- Patients had numerous prior consultations (mean 3.1 GP, 1.7 dermatologist).
- Treatment adherence issues included missed follow-up doses, improper application, and inadequate treatment of household contacts.
Conclusions:
- Scabies treatment failure is linked to undertreatment of close contacts and lack of timely retreatment.
- Insufficient treatment efficacy may stem from intrinsic parasite resistance or issues with drug administration and explanation.
- Improved patient-physician communication, timely retreatment, and effective therapies are essential for managing persistent scabies.
