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Parasitological and clinical studies on human scabies in Cairo
M A Sarwat1, L M el Okbi, M M el Sayed
1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, Egypt.
Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology
|December 1, 1993
Summary
This study investigated human scabies in 100 patients, finding that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Common symptoms include itching and lesions on hands and wrists, with diagnostic tests like the Skin Scraping Test being vital.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Human scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, often relying on clinical presentation and diagnostic tests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a parasitological and clinical study of human scabies.
- To identify common clinical manifestations, affected sites, and diagnostic test efficacy.
Main Methods:
- A study of 100 patients (54 males, 46 females) at Dermatology Outpatient Clinic.
- Inclusion of detailed history, dermatological examination, Skin Scraping Test, and Burrow Ink Test.
Main Results:
- Common lesions included scratching, erythematous papules, and secondary infected lesions, primarily on hands, wrists, and genitalia.
- Burrows were detected in 40% of patients; Burrow Ink Test was positive in 85% of those with burrows.
- Skin Scraping Test identified mites in 55% of patients; itching, burrows, and papules were frequent in parasitologically positive cases.
Conclusions:
- Early presentation is associated with younger patients, while older patients often delay seeking care until complications arise.
- The hands, wrists, and external genitalia are the most commonly affected sites in scabies patients.
- Diagnostic tests like the Burrow Ink Test and Skin Scraping Test are valuable tools for confirming scabies diagnosis.