Korean J Dermatol.  2008 Jan;46(1):86-89.

Four Cases of Infantile Nodular Scabies: The Usefulness of Dermoscopy for in Vivo Detection of Scabies

• Kim SH
• Ko HC
• Kim SJ
• Kim MB
• Oh CK
• Kwon KS

Abstract

The typical history of pruritus with nocturnal exacerbation and distribution of the eruption of inflammatory papules is suggestive of a scabies infestation. However, atypical cases of scabies, such as nodular scabies, frequently lack classical symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis. Dermoscopy is a very helpful tool for differential diagnosis of pigmented skin lesions. Moreover, unique dermoscopic findings such as 'jet with condensation trails' are considered as specific features in scabies. Dermoscopy is especially suitable for the detection of mites in cases of atypical scabies where no typical burrows or papules could be found. Also, it can be useful for infantile scabies because it permits rapid, non-invasive examination without causing pain or discomfort to the patient. We herein report 4 cases of infantile nodular scabies diagnosed by dermoscopy. We suggest that it is an effective diagnostic method for scabies.

Keyword

Dermoscopy; Nodular scabies

MeSH Terms

Dermoscopy
Diagnosis, Differential
Diagnostic Errors
Humans
Mites
Pruritus
Scabies
Skin