Pruritic Crusted Scabies in an Immunocompetent Infant

Abstract

Crusted scabies (also known as Norwegian scabies) is a highly contagious variant of scabies characterized by profuse proliferation of mites in the skin and widespread, crusted, hyperkeratotic papules, plaques, and nodules. Typically, pruritus is minimal or absent. The condition usually occurs in immunocompromised individuals. Occurrence in healthy infants has rarely been reported. We report an 11-month-old healthy Malay boy who presented with crusted scabies.

Plantar keratoderma‐like crusted scabies in an immunocompetent infant after topical steroids

“…Crusted scabies has rarely been described in healthy infants. 2,3 The presence of an immature immune system, difficulty in scratching (mite elimination mechanism), overcrowding, or malnutrition may be predisposing factors. 3 The use of systemic or topical corticosteroids as well as calcineurin inhibitors has been associated with its development.…”

“…Risk factors include neurological disease, intellectual disability, malignant neoplasms, and immune disorders. Crusted scabies has rarely been described in healthy infants 2,3 . The presence of an immature immune system, difficulty in scratching (mite elimination mechanism), overcrowding, or malnutrition may be predisposing factors 3 .…”

A Puzzling Crusted Scabies On The Nipple Of An Immunocompetent Woman

“…Nails are often thickened, discoloured, and dystrophic. Pruritus may be minimal or absent [ 6,7], while in the immunocompetent host, it has been reported that lesions were intensively pruritic [7].…”