[Scabies-clinical resistance to permethrin therapy : Case reports and a critical discussion of current treatment recommendations]
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Renz Mang1, Almut Kremer2, Percy Lehmann3
1Gemeinschaftspraxis für Dermatologie, Venerologie, Allergologie und Proktologie, Hautzentrum Wuppertal, Hauptstr. 36, 42349, Wuppertal, Deutschland. mang@hautzentrum-wuppertal.de.
Abstract:
Scabies is a contagious disease with increasing frequency. This is confirmed by data from insurance companies as well as increased search queries on Google. There is a controversial discussion in the scientific literature whether the mite has become resistant to standard therapy with permethrin. One case report and a group of cases (N = 12) from a mother-child facility are described in the following demonstrating decreased effectiveness of permethrin therapy. Dermatoscopy can be helpful in diagnosis and in assessing effectiveness of therapy. Dermatoscopic criteria are shown and therapeutic concepts are critically discussed.
Insights
Scabies is a contagious disease on the rise, with permethrin therapy showing decreased effectiveness in some cases. Dermatoscopy aids in diagnosis and monitoring treatment success for this increasingly common condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Scabies, a contagious skin infestation, is increasing globally, evidenced by rising insurance claims and online searches.
- A controversial debate exists regarding permethrin resistance in scabies mites, the standard treatment.
- This study investigates the effectiveness of permethrin therapy in a real-world setting.
Observation:
- A case report and a series of 12 cases from a mother-child facility were analyzed.
- These cases demonstrated a reduced efficacy of standard permethrin treatment for scabies.
- Dermatoscopy was utilized for diagnostic confirmation and to evaluate treatment outcomes.
Findings:
- Permethrin therapy showed decreased effectiveness in the observed cases of scabies.
- Dermatoscopic criteria were identified to aid in scabies diagnosis.
- The study highlights the utility of dermatoscopy in assessing treatment response.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a potential need to re-evaluate current scabies treatment protocols.
- Dermatoscopy emerges as a valuable tool for clinicians managing scabies.
- Further research into permethrin resistance and alternative therapies is warranted to address the increasing incidence of scabies.
