Authors
Ana Beatriz Nardelli da Silva, Maitê Silva Martins Gadelha, Giovanna Lourenço Cei, Adriani Ferreira do Carmo, Arlisson Macedo Rodrigues
Published in
Case reports in infectious diseases. Volume 2026. Pages 5279255. Epub Sep 02, 2026.
Abstract
Sepsis secondary to crusted scabies is a rare but life-threatening complication of Sarcoptes scabiei infestation, particularly in vulnerable and underserved populations. Misdiagnosis with other dermatological conditions may lead to inappropriate treatment and severe outcomes.
A 50-year-old Indigenous man from the Brazilian Amazon presented with a one-year history of generalized pruritus, diffuse hyperkeratotic and crusted skin lesions, and progressive clinical deterioration.
The patient was initially misdiagnosed with Hansen's disease and atopic dermatitis and received prolonged corticosteroid therapy, which exacerbated his condition. Skin scraping confirmed crusted scabies, and blood cultures grew Staphylococcus aureus, establishing the diagnosis of sepsis secondary to skin infection. He was treated with oral ivermectin, topical 5% permethrin, and systemic antibiotics, with gradual tapering and discontinuation of corticosteroids. The patient achieved complete clinical recovery.
This case highlights the critical importance of early recognition of crusted scabies and the risks associated with misdiagnosis and inappropriate immunosuppressive therapy. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent severe complications such as sepsis, particularly in resource-limited and endemic settings.
PMID:
42689123
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 03 Sep 2026.
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