Korean J Dermatol.  2024 Nov;62(9):510-515.

Epidemiology and Characteristics of Scabies Infections in the Ulsan City: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

• Cha DR
• Jang CH
• Kim JS
• Suh HS

Abstract

Background
The prevalence of scabies, a contagious parasitic skin disease, has decreased to ＜1% in South Korea. However, an increase in the elderly population has led to occasional outbreaks. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological changes and clinical features of scabies diagnosed in Ulsan over the past decade.
Objective
This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological changes and clinical features of scabies infections diagnosed at a tertiary hospital in Ulsan over the past decade.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study at Ulsan University Hospital that reviewed 235 cases from 2013 to 2022. We analyzed the medical records of patients diagnosed with scabies by dermoscopy and microscopic examination.
Results
Among 55,430 patients, 235 were confirmed to have scabies, with an overall prevalence of 0.42%. The highest annual incidence was in 2018 (35 cases), with a subsequent decrease but a gradual increase from 2019 to 2022. The most common infection route was through nursing facilities (32.3%). The elderly (≥70 years) comprised 32.3% cases, and typical clinical manifestations were papules (80.4%) of the trunk and extremities. Eosinophilia was observed in 31.4% inpatients. The mean treatment duration was 29.15 days.
Conclusion
We report a declining but significant prevalence of scabies in Ulsan, with many cases occurring among the elderly in nursing facilities. This study underscores the need for continued surveillance and education regarding the diagnosis and management of scabies in healthcare and community facilities.

Keyword

Epidemiology; Scabies