The Validity of Dermoscopic Findings in Diagnosis of Scabies

Abstract

Background: Scabies is a common parasitic infestation of the skin. Signs and symptoms of scabies are the result of a hypersensitivity reaction to proteins released by the mites. Diagnosing scabies is problematic and confirmed by direct tests showing the presence of mites or their eggs. Dermoscopy is viewed as a sensitive and valuable tool in diagnosing scabies in vivo. Aim of the work: To assess the validity of dermoscopic findings in diagnosis of scabies. Patients and methods: This study included 40 patients complaining of generalized itching or multiple localized itching. All the patients were subjected to full history taking and clinical examination including general examination, dermatological examination and photography of any lesions in the suspected sites. These lesions were examined by the dermoscope. Results: The results of the study revealed that dermoscope had 87.5 % sensitivity and 100% specificity in the diagnosis of scabies as compared to clinical examination. The overall accuracy of dermoscope in diagnosis of clinically suspected cases was 90%. Conclusion: Scabies is a common skin disease that affects both genders mainly in the middle age group. Dermoscope has been shown to be as an effective and non-invasive technique in diagnosis of scabies