Scabies: occurrence, control and treatment in the Caribbean

ABSTRACT

The mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, which causes scabies in man produces an uncomfortable itch which, in itself, is not life-threatening. It is easily controlled when treated with appropriate scabicides, and with effictive public health education and proper hygiene an end to the infection is quickly achieved. However, secondary infection of the scabietic lesions with nephritogenic streptococci can lead to glomerulonephritis which, in the short term, results in hospitalisation with oedema, haematuria and proteinuria as common presenting symptoms. In the long-term, chronic renal disease leading to costly dialysis and renal transplant can occur after this preventable itchy and uncomfortable infection. (AU)