Ivermectin for Sarcoptes scabiei hyperinfestation.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

Crusted (Norwegian) scabies is an unusual variant of scabies caused by hyperinfestation with Sarcoptes scabiei. It has high morbidity, and secondary bacterial skin sepsis may result in life-threatening bacteremia. An open label study of oral ivermectin was carried out in patients with crusted scabies refractory to topical therapy.

METHODS:

Patients with refractory crusted scabies were prescribed oral ivermectin, one to three doses of 200 mg/kg at 14-day intervals, combined with topical scabicide and keratolytic therapy.

RESULTS:

Of the 20 patients who received ivermectin, 8 had a complete initial clinical response, a partial response was achieved in 9, and minimal improvement occurred in 3. Three doses of ivermectin were curative for 8 of 10 cases, but recurrence of scabies from presumed reinfestation occurred in at least half of these.

CONCLUSION:

The authors conclude that ivermectin is effective for crusted scabies; however, multiple doses may be required to achieve a cure, and recurrence 6 or more weeks after completing treatment is common.

• Authors: S E Huffam, B J Currie
• Journal: International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases (Int J Infect Dis) 1998 Jan-Mar Vol. 2 Issue 3 Pg. 152-4 ISSN: 1201-9712 [Print] Canada
• PMID: 9531662 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antiparasitic Agents
• Ivermectin

Topics

• Administration, Oral
• Adult
• Aged
• Animals
• Antiparasitic Agents (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Australia
• Female
• Humans
• Ivermectin (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
• Northern Territory
• Scabies (drug therapy)
• Treatment Outcome