Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 7, 2025

Clinical Examination Protocol to Detect Atypical and Classical Scrapie in Sheep
Published on: January 19, 2014
Scabies: An Itchy Twitch
Hasan Shoaib1, Collin J O'Bryan2, Eliot Rapoport1
1Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, USA.
Abstract:
One of the most common and contagious infectious dermatological pathology is scabies. It is caused by tiny mites and spreads via skin-to-skin contact. It is most prevalent in children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised. Once diagnosed, the individual and all household contacts must be treated. Scabies has conventionally been considered a disease of the developing world and is prevalent in patients from a low socioeconomic status. Herein, we present an interesting case from a tertiary care hospital in North America.
Insights
Scabies, a contagious skin disease caused by mites, is common in children and the elderly. This case highlights scabies in North America, challenging its perception as solely a disease of low socioeconomic status.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Scabies is a highly contagious ectoparasitic infection caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.
- It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Conventional understanding links scabies prevalence to low socioeconomic status and developing regions.
Observation:
- A case of scabies was identified in a tertiary care hospital in North America.
- This presentation occurred in a setting not typically associated with high scabies prevalence.
- The diagnosis necessitated treatment for the patient and all household contacts.
Findings:
- The case challenges the traditional epidemiological view of scabies.
- It underscores the importance of considering scabies in diverse clinical settings.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further transmission.
Implications:
- This case suggests a broader distribution of scabies than previously recognized in developed nations.
- It highlights the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers in North America.
- Further research may be warranted to understand the evolving epidemiology of scabies.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Accessory Structures of the Skin: Sebaceous Glands
These glands that produce the oils on the skin and hair are holocrine glands. The mature...
Restless Leg Syndrome and Night Terrors
The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate muscle movement. Imbalances in dopamine levels...
Accessory Structures of the Skin: Hair and Hair Follicles
Hair is a keratinous filament growing out of the epidermis. It is primarily made of dead, keratinized cells. Hair strands originate at the epidermal penetration called the hair follicle. The hair shaft is the part...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Introduction to the Integumentary System
The skin, which is the primary organ of the integumentary system, consists of three main layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue). The epidermis is the...

