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Crusted scabies due to indiscriminate use of glucocorticoid therapy in infant
Fernanda Carvalho da Rocha Lima1, Ana Maria Mósca Cerqueira1,2,3,4, Manuela Boleira Sieiro Guimarães1
1Dermatology Service of the General Polyclinic of Rio de Janeiro (PGRJ) - Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil.
Abstract:
Crusted or Norwegian scabies is a parasitic infectious disease caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis that mainly affects immunocompromised individuals and those with neurological patients. We report a case of crusted scabies in a 4-month-old infant who had been treated erroneously for atopic dermatitis with high doses of corticosteroids. This initial misdiagnosis associated with the abusive use of corticosteroid facilitated the evolution of scabies to crusted scabies and its main complications of secondary infection and sepsis.
Insights
Crusted scabies, a severe form of mite infestation, can occur in infants due to misdiagnosis. Mismanagement with corticosteroids can worsen this condition, leading to dangerous infections and sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Crusted scabies is a severe infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis.
- It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and those with neurological conditions.
Observation:
- A case of crusted scabies in a 4-month-old infant is presented.
- The infant was initially misdiagnosed with atopic dermatitis and treated with high-dose corticosteroids.
Findings:
- Misdiagnosis and excessive corticosteroid use facilitated the progression to crusted scabies.
- Secondary infection and sepsis were major complications observed in the infant.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis in pediatric scabies cases.
- Underscores the risks associated with inappropriate corticosteroid use in infants.
- Emphasizes the potential for severe complications like sepsis in crusted scabies.
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