Clinical Profile of Scabies: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Southeastern Nigerian Hospital

Abstract

Background: Scabies is a common skin infestation caused by ectoparasite, Sarcoptes scabei var. hominis. The disease is ubiquitous and affects all age groups. It is spread by direct or indirect contact with an infected person or via fomites. Clinical features frequently vary necessitating occasional missed diagnoses. A knowledge of the diverse clinical patterns will improve diagnostic accuracy, especially in atypical presentations. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical profile of scabies in patients presenting to the dermatology clinic at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study and was conducted from January to December 2019. All patients diagnosed with scabies during the study period were recruited. The diagnosis was clinical. The clinical features and patient characteristics were documented. Results: A total number of 96 patients were enrolled. Two-thirds were males while a third were females. The frequently affected sites were the buttocks, genitals, ankles, and wrists. The commonest presenting features were itching, papules, scales, and nodules. Papular scabies were the most common type of scabies seen. Conclusion: Papular scabies remain the most common type of scabies. Many cases are often misdiagnosed. Self-medication with triple action creams was a popular practice among our patients, a practice which may mask the typical presentation of the symptoms (itch) and signs (Scabies incognito)