[Scabies].

Scabies. Scabies is a parasitic skin disease specific to humans caused by a microscopic mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Scabies is a common contagious disease, with a prevalence that is likely to be on rise, causing an important public health burden worldwide. Scabies is often considered as a benign disease, but its morbidity is actually overlooked and probably underestimated, especially in tropical countries. Scabies morbidity is mainly caused by associated bacterial infections. Scabies is transmitted from one person to another by direct and prolonged skin-to-skin contact. Less often, scabies can be transmitted by indirect contact, for example with contaminated clothes. The main risk factors for transmission of the disease are close contacts, overcrowding within household, communities, but also nursing homes or institutions. Therapeutic management can be challenging and requires time in consultation. Good understanding and compliance of patients are essential for a successful treatment. The therapeutic arsenal mainly comprises molecules for topical use. Ivermectin is the only oral drug available. None of the treatments currently available have sufficient ovicidal activity. This dictates to systematically suggesting two applications/ doses for the patient, as well for the contact subjects.