Unusual presentation of crusted scabies with osteolysis in immunocompetent

Crusted scabies results from a failure of the host immune response to control the proliferation of the scabies mite in the skin, with resulting hyperinfestation and a concomitant inflammatory and hyper-keratotic reaction. However, it has also been recognised in people with no evident immunological deficit.

We present a case report of apparently immunocompetent 16-year-old female presenting with multiple hyperkeratotic vegetating plaques over limbs, excoriated papules over trunk with minimal itching since 2 years without any positive family history. The microscopic examination of the skin scales with potassium hydroxide demonstrated numerous scabies mites and eggs. Histopathology showed hyperkeratosis with multiple mites in stratum corneum. Numerous mites were seen on biopsy of lesion. X-ray showed osteolysis of distal phalanges secondary to chronic pressure. Repeated topical treatments with permethrin and oral ivermectin led to the considerable resolution of her lesions.

We present a rare case of crusted scabies with osteolysis in an immunocompetent female.