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Scabies

Scabies

Scabies is an infestation of the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which presents most commonly with intense pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema), characteristic linear burrows Burrows Dermatologic Examination, and erythematous papules, particularly in the interdigital folds and the flexor aspects of the wrists. Direct and prolonged human-to-human contact is the biggest risk factor for transmission. Diagnosis is most often clinical but can be confirmed by microscopic examination of skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions scrapings or by dermatoscopy. Treatment includes permethrin cream for both the patient and close personal contacts (cohabitants and sexual partners) as well as thorough cleaning of bedding and clothing.

Last updated: 22 Apr, 2021

Editorial responsibility: Stanley Oiseth, Lindsay Jones, Evelin Maza

Contents

Epidemiology

  • > 300 million cases reported worldwide
  • A relatively common infestation that can affect Affect The feeling-tone accompaniment of an idea or mental representation. It is the most direct psychic derivative of instinct and the psychic representative of the various bodily changes by means of which instincts manifest themselves. Psychiatric Assessment individuals of any age or socioeconomic status
  • Most vulnerable groups are young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised immunocompromised A human or animal whose immunologic mechanism is deficient because of an immunodeficiency disorder or other disease or as the result of the administration of immunosuppressive drugs or radiation. Gastroenteritis.
  • The highest incidence Incidence The number of new cases of a given disease during a given period in a specified population. It also is used for the rate at which new events occur in a defined population. It is differentiated from prevalence, which refers to all cases in the population at a given time. Measures of Disease Frequency occurs in countries with significant poverty.
  • More common during instances of overcrowding, including:
    • Natural disasters
    • War
  • In children, scabies can be easily transmitted in institutional settings, such as:
    • Psychiatric wards
    • Nursing homes
    • Day-care facilities

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Life Cycle and Transmission

Scabies mite

Adult Sarcoptes mite taken from the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions scraping of the dead Himalayan lynx

Image: “Adult Sarcoptes mite taken from the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions scraping of the dead Himalayan lynx” by Department of Zoology, Mirpur University of Science & Technology (MUST), Mirpur Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan. License: CC BY 4.0
  • Sarcoptes scabiei: 8-legged, whitish-brown mite
  • Life cycle Cycle The type of signal that ends the inspiratory phase delivered by the ventilator Invasive Mechanical Ventilation
    • After mating, the female mites burrow into the stratum corneum Stratum corneum Skin: Structure and Functions.
    • Lays 2–3 eggs per day before dying (lifespan is approximately 4–6 weeks)
    • Larvae Larvae Wormlike or grublike stage, following the egg in the life cycle of insects, worms, and other metamorphosing animals. Ascaris/Ascariasis hatch in 3–4 days and reach adulthood in the burrow.
    • Mite burden 
      • Low in classic scabies (10–15 mites)
      • High in crusted scabies (up to 2 million mites)
    • Mites can survive without a host for approximately 24–36 hours; thus, fomite transmission may occur.
Scabies life cycle

The 4 stages in the S. scabiei life cycle Cycle The type of signal that ends the inspiratory phase delivered by the ventilator Invasive Mechanical Ventilation: egg, larva, nymph, and adult

1: Females deposit 2–3 eggs per day as they burrow under the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions.
2: Eggs are oval, 0.10–0.15 mm MM Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant condition of plasma cells (activated B lymphocytes) primarily seen in the elderly. Monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells results in cytokine-driven osteoclastic activity and excessive secretion of IgG antibodies. Multiple Myeloma in length, and hatch in 3–4 days.
3: After the eggs hatch, the larvae Larvae Wormlike or grublike stage, following the egg in the life cycle of insects, worms, and other metamorphosing animals. Ascaris/Ascariasis migrate to the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions surface and burrow into the intact stratum corneum Stratum corneum Skin: Structure and Functions to construct almost-invisible, short burrows Burrows Dermatologic Examination called molting pouches.
4: The resulting nymphs have 4 pairs of legs.
5: Mating occurs after the active male penetrates the molting pouch of the adult female.

Image by Lecturio.
  • Transmission
    • Direct: person-to-person transmission upon prolonged skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions-to- skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions contact, usually between family members or sexual partners; casual skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions contact is unlikely to result in infection
    • Environmental: Crusted scabies can be transmitted via fomites Fomites Inanimate objects that carry pathogenic microorganisms and thus can serve as the source of infection. Microorganisms typically survive on fomites for minutes or hours. Common fomites include clothing, tissue paper, hairbrushes, and cooking and eating utensils. Adenovirus (scarves, hats, bedding, etc ETC The electron transport chain (ETC) sends electrons through a series of proteins, which generate an electrochemical proton gradient that produces energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Electron Transport Chain (ETC).).
    • Rare transmission between animal and human
  • The infection takes the form of:
    • Initial infection:
      • Sensitization occurs over 4 to 6 weeks.
      • This delay in symptom onset occurs due to a delayed-type hypersensitivity Delayed-type hypersensitivity Type IV hypersensitivity reaction, or delayed-type hypersensitivity, is a cell-mediated response to antigen exposure. The reaction involves T cells, not antibodies, and develops over several days. Presensitized T cells initiate the immune defense, leading to tissue damage. Type IV Hypersensitivity Reaction reaction.
    • Reinfestation: occurs if the patient is already sensitized, so pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) occurs within 1–3 days.
  • In patients Patients Individuals participating in the health care system for the purpose of receiving therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventive procedures. Clinician–Patient Relationship with compromised cellular immunity Cellular immunity Manifestations of the immune response which are mediated by antigen-sensitized T-lymphocytes via lymphokines or direct cytotoxicity. This takes place in the absence of circulating antibody or where antibody plays a subordinate role. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), there is a high risk of developing hyperkeratotic/crusted scabies.

Clinical Presentation

Key characteristic features

  • Severe nocturnal itching 
  • Characteristic rash Rash Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever distribution
  • Commonly involved areas:
    • Interdigital folds
    • Flexor aspects of the wrists
    • Axillary folds
    • Extensor aspects of the elbows and knees
    • Male genitalia
    • Periareolar skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions (especially in women) 
    • Periumbilical skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions
    • Waist
    • Inferior portions of buttocks and adjacent thighs
    • Lateral and posterior aspects of the feet
  • Areas usually spared in classic scabies: head (except in young children) and back
  • Scratching may result in:
    • Excoriations Excoriations Excoriation is a linear abrasion produced by mechanical means (scratching, rubbing, or picking) that usually involves only the epidermis but can reach the papillary dermis. Secondary Skin Lesions
    • Crusts
    • Eczema Eczema Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic, relapsing, pruritic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs more frequently in children, although adults can also be affected. The condition is often associated with elevated serum levels of IgE and a personal or family history of atopy. Skin dryness, erythema, oozing, crusting, and lichenification are present. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
    • Bacterial superinfections of the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions can occur as a complication.

Classic scabies

  • Pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema), usually worse at night
    • Delayed-type hypersensitivity Delayed-type hypersensitivity Type IV hypersensitivity reaction, or delayed-type hypersensitivity, is a cell-mediated response to antigen exposure. The reaction involves T cells, not antibodies, and develops over several days. Presensitized T cells initiate the immune defense, leading to tissue damage. Type IV Hypersensitivity Reaction reaction to the mite, mite feces, and mite eggs
    • For primary infestation, symptoms begin in 3–6 weeks.
    • For previously infected individuals, symptoms begin within 1–3 days.
  • Cutaneous findings:
    • Multiple small, erythematous papules that are often excoriated 
    • Distribution is rarely localized to a single area.
    • Burrows Burrows Dermatologic Examination (2–15 mm MM Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant condition of plasma cells (activated B lymphocytes) primarily seen in the elderly. Monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells results in cytokine-driven osteoclastic activity and excessive secretion of IgG antibodies. Multiple Myeloma; thin, gray, or brown lines) are often not visible due to excoriation Excoriation Mastitis or secondary infection.
    • Miniature wheals, vesicles Vesicles Female Genitourinary Examination, pustules, and, rarely, bullae Bullae Erythema Multiforme also may be present.
  • Nodular scabies:
    • A less common manifestation of classic scabies
    • Present as pruritic, firm, and erythematous papules measuring 5–6 mm MM Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant condition of plasma cells (activated B lymphocytes) primarily seen in the elderly. Monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells results in cytokine-driven osteoclastic activity and excessive secretion of IgG antibodies. Multiple Myeloma in diameter
    • Usual sites involved: axillary folds, groin Groin The external junctural region between the lower part of the abdomen and the thigh. Male Genitourinary Examination, genitalia, buttocks
    • May represent a focally heightened hypersensitivity reaction
  • Crusted scabies (also called scabies crustosa or Norwegian scabies)
    • Occurs in conditions that compromise cellular immunity Cellular immunity Manifestations of the immune response which are mediated by antigen-sensitized T-lymphocytes via lymphokines or direct cytotoxicity. This takes place in the absence of circulating antibody or where antibody plays a subordinate role. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) ( AIDS AIDS Chronic HIV infection and depletion of CD4 cells eventually results in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can be diagnosed by the presence of certain opportunistic diseases called AIDS-defining conditions. These conditions include a wide spectrum of bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections as well as several malignancies and generalized conditions. HIV Infection and AIDS, cytostatic therapy, leukemia), and with long-term topical glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids are a class within the corticosteroid family. Glucocorticoids are chemically and functionally similar to endogenous cortisol. There are a wide array of indications, which primarily benefit from the antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of this class of drugs. Glucocorticoids; also seen in older adults and in patients Patients Individuals participating in the health care system for the purpose of receiving therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventive procedures. Clinician–Patient Relationship with Down syndrome Down syndrome Down syndrome, or trisomy 21, is the most common chromosomal aberration and the most frequent genetic cause of developmental delay. Both boys and girls are affected and have characteristic craniofacial and musculoskeletal features, as well as multiple medical anomalies involving the cardiac, gastrointestinal, ocular, and auditory systems. Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
    • Massive mite infestation
    • Poorly defined, erythematous patches Erythematous Patches Seborrheic Dermatitis that quickly develop prominent scaling
    • Scales Scales Dry or greasy masses of keratin that represent thickened stratum corneum. Secondary Skin Lesions may become warty; crusts and fissures may also appear.
    • Occurs most prominently on the scalp, hands, and feet 
    • Nails are often thickened, discolored, and dystrophic.
  • Pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) may be minimal or absent.
  • Scabies with visible burrow

    Scabies infestation with visible burrows Burrows Dermatologic Examination

    Image: “Scabies infestation with visible burrow” by Saint Louis University, Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, 1465 South Grand Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA. License: CC-BY-4.0
  • Distribution of scabies

    Distribution of scabies

    Image by Lecturio.
  • Scabies on right hand

    Multiple excoriations Excoriations Excoriation is a linear abrasion produced by mechanical means (scratching, rubbing, or picking) that usually involves only the epidermis but can reach the papillary dermis. Secondary Skin Lesions and small, erythematous papules, all of which cause itchiness

    Image: “ScabiesD08” by Cixia. License: Public Domain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is confirmed through the detection of scabies mites, eggs, or fecal pellets (scybala) through microscopic examination. However, diagnosis can be clinically based on history and physical examination findings.

  • History and physical exam
    • Widespread itching that is worse at night and spares the head and back
    • Characteristic pruritic lesions and distribution
    • Other household members or sexual contacts with similar symptoms
  • Scabies preparation
    • Scraping: Apply mineral oil to the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions and vigorously scrape the surface with a number-15 scalpel blade. Add potassium Potassium An element in the alkali group of metals with an atomic symbol k, atomic number 19, and atomic weight 39. 10. It is the chief cation in the intracellular fluid of muscle and other cells. Potassium ion is a strong electrolyte that plays a significant role in the regulation of fluid volume and maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance. Hyperkalemia hydroxide (KOH) if crusted scabies present, then view under the microscope.
    • Adhesive tape test: Use strong transparent (packing-type tape), remove rapidly, then apply to a microscope slide and view under the microscope.
    • Classic scabies has a low mite count, so a negative scabies preparation does not rule out infection. Sensitivity Sensitivity Binary classification measures to assess test results. Sensitivity or recall rate is the proportion of true positives. Blotting Techniques of scabies preparations: 40%–90%; specificity Specificity Specificity is the probability of correctly determining the absence of a condition. Immunoassays: 100%
  • Dermoscopic examination:
    • Delta wing sign: a dark triangular shape that represents the head of the mite within a burrow
    • It is less specific than scabies preparations.
  • Labs: Blood tests are not indicated. However, eosinophilia Eosinophilia Abnormal increase of eosinophils in the blood, tissues or organs. Autosomal Dominant Hyperimmunoglobulin E Syndrome has been reported.

Occasionally, scabies may be misdiagnosed as atopic dermatitis Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic, relapsing, pruritic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs more frequently in children, although adults can also be affected. The condition is often associated with elevated serum levels of IgE and a personal or family history of atopy. Skin dryness, erythema, oozing, crusting, and lichenification are present. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema). This often occurs due to the appearance of the erythematous papules. Patients Patients Individuals participating in the health care system for the purpose of receiving therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventive procedures. Clinician–Patient Relationship who are misdiagnosed will have initial symptom alleviation with topical glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids are a class within the corticosteroid family. Glucocorticoids are chemically and functionally similar to endogenous cortisol. There are a wide array of indications, which primarily benefit from the antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of this class of drugs. Glucocorticoids; however, this will not treat the underlying cause (i.e., mite infestation).

Closeup scabies burrow

Close-up photo of a scabies burrow. The large scaly patch Patch Nonpalpable lesion > 1 cm in diameter Generalized and Localized Rashes at the left is due to scratching. The scabies mite traveled toward the upper right and can be seen at the end of the burrow.

Image: “Close-up photo of a scabies burrow” by Michael Geary. License: Public Domain

Treatment

Treatment

  • 2 pillars of successful therapy in scabies:
    1. Hygienic measures
    2. Medication therapy and compliance Compliance Distensibility measure of a chamber such as the lungs (lung compliance) or bladder. Compliance is expressed as a change in volume per unit change in pressure. Veins: Histology
  • First-line treatment in adults:
    • Classic scabies: topical permethrin 5%
    • Crusted scabies: topical permethrin 5% and oral ivermectin Ivermectin A mixture of mostly avermectin h2b1a (rn 71827-03-7) with some avermectin h2b1b (rn 70209-81-3), which are macrolides from streptomyces avermitilis. It binds glutamate-gated chloride channel to cause increased permeability and hyperpolarization of nerve and muscle cells. It also interacts with other chloride channels. It is a broad spectrum antiparasitic that is active against microfilariae of onchocerca volvulus but not the adult form. Anthelmintic Drugs
  • First-line treatment in children: Administration of topical permethrin and antibiotic therapy (if secondary scabies lesions become infected)
  • Second application of permethrin 1–2 weeks later may be necessary to eliminate mites.
  • Nodules that persist after eradication of mites can be treated with potent topical corticosteroids Corticosteroids Chorioretinitis or intralesional corticosteroid injections.
  • Pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) 
    • May increase after the introduction of a scabicidal agent.
    • Oral antihistamines Antihistamines Antihistamines are drugs that target histamine receptors, particularly H1 and H2 receptors. H1 antagonists are competitive and reversible inhibitors of H1 receptors. First-generation antihistamines cross the blood-brain barrier and can cause sedation. Antihistamines such as hydroxyzine Hydroxyzine A histamine h1 receptor antagonist that is effective in the treatment of chronic urticaria, dermatitis, and histamine-mediated pruritus. Unlike its major metabolite cetirizine, it does cause drowsiness. It is also effective as an antiemetic, for relief of anxiety and tension, and as a sedative. Antihistamines hydrochloride or diphenhydramine Diphenhydramine A histamine h1 antagonist used as an antiemetic, antitussive, for dermatoses and pruritus, for hypersensitivity reactions, as a hypnotic, an antiparkinson, and as an ingredient in common cold preparations. It has some undesired antimuscarinic and sedative effects. Antihistamines hydrochloride help with severe pruritus Pruritus An intense itching sensation that produces the urge to rub or scratch the skin to obtain relief. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema).

Prevention

  • Changing and washing clothes, bedding, and towels on a daily basis
  • Topical permethrin for family and close personal contacts, including cohabitants or those with prolonged skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions-to- skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions contact in the preceding 6 weeks

Complications

  • Secondary bacterial skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions infections Infections Invasion of the host organism by microorganisms or their toxins or by parasites that can cause pathological conditions or diseases. Chronic Granulomatous Disease including  impetigo Impetigo Impetigo is a highly contagious superficial bacterial infection typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus (most common) and Streptococcus pyogenes. Impetigo most commonly presents in children aged 2 to 5 years with lesions that evolve from papules to vesicles to pustules, which eventually break down to form characteristic “honey-colored” crusts. Impetigo, ecthyma Ecthyma An ulcerative pyoderma usually caused by group a beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection at the site of minor trauma. Impetigo, and furunculosis
  • Psychological issues including embarrassment and delusion Delusion A false belief regarding the self or persons or objects outside the self that persists despite the facts, and is not considered tenable by one’s associates. Delusional Disorder of parasitosis

Differential Diagnosis

  • Atopic dermatitis Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic, relapsing, pruritic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs more frequently in children, although adults can also be affected. The condition is often associated with elevated serum levels of IgE and a personal or family history of atopy. Skin dryness, erythema, oozing, crusting, and lichenification are present. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): sometimes called allergic eczema Eczema Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic, relapsing, pruritic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs more frequently in children, although adults can also be affected. The condition is often associated with elevated serum levels of IgE and a personal or family history of atopy. Skin dryness, erythema, oozing, crusting, and lichenification are present. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema); chronic pruritic inflammatory skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions disease that occurs most frequently in children, but also in adults. Often associated with elevated IgE IgE An immunoglobulin associated with mast cells. Overexpression has been associated with allergic hypersensitivity. Immunoglobulins: Types and Functions and a personal or family history Family History Adult Health Maintenance of atopy Atopy Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
  • Insect bites: It is important to rule out insect bites as an underlying etiology. Take into consideration the patient’s history and physical exam, symptom onset, and affected close contacts. 
  • Dermatitis herpetiformis Dermatitis herpetiformis Rare, chronic, papulo-vesicular disease characterized by an intensely pruritic eruption consisting of various combinations of symmetrical, erythematous, papular, vesicular, or bullous lesions. The disease is strongly associated with the presence of hla-b8 and hla-dr3 antigens. A variety of different autoantibodies has been detected in small numbers in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis. Celiac Disease: autoimmune cutaneous eruption associated with gluten Gluten Prolamins in the endosperm of seeds from the triticeae tribe which includes species of wheat; barley; and rye. Celiac Disease sensitivity Sensitivity Binary classification measures to assess test results. Sensitivity or recall rate is the proportion of true positives. Blotting Techniques. Affected patients Patients Individuals participating in the health care system for the purpose of receiving therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventive procedures. Clinician–Patient Relationship typically develop intensely pruritic inflammatory papules and vesicles Vesicles Female Genitourinary Examination on the forearms Forearms Part of the upper extremity in humans and primates extending from the elbow to the wrist. Bowen Disease and Erythroplasia of Queyrat, knees, scalp, or buttocks. Skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions biopsy Biopsy Removal and pathologic examination of specimens from the living body. Ewing Sarcoma shows granular deposits of IgA IgA Represents 15-20% of the human serum immunoglobulins, mostly as the 4-chain polymer in humans or dimer in other mammals. Secretory iga is the main immunoglobulin in secretions. Immunoglobulins: Types and Functions in the dermal papillae Papillae Lips and Tongue: Anatomy.
  • Bullous pemphigoid Bullous pemphigoid Bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris are two different blistering autoimmune diseases. In bullous pemphigoid, autoantibodies attack the hemidesmosomes, which connect epidermal keratinocytes to the basement membrane. This attack results in large, tense subepidermal blisters. Bullous Pemphigoid and Pemphigus Vulgaris: autoimmune blistering disorder usually seen in older adults. Associated with a prodrome Prodrome Symptoms that appear 24–48 hours prior to migraine onset. Migraine Headache of pruritic, urticaria Urticaria Urticaria is raised, well-circumscribed areas (wheals) of edema (swelling) and erythema (redness) involving the dermis and epidermis with associated pruritus (itch). Urticaria is not a single disease but rather is a reaction pattern representing cutaneous mast cell degranulation. Urticaria (Hives)-like skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions lesions followed by tense bullae Bullae Erythema Multiforme on an erythematous urticarial base. Skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions biopsy Biopsy Removal and pathologic examination of specimens from the living body. Ewing Sarcoma shows linear deposition of IgG IgG The major immunoglobulin isotype class in normal human serum. There are several isotype subclasses of igg, for example, igg1, igg2a, and igg2b. Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis and/or C3 along the basement membrane Basement membrane A darkly stained mat-like extracellular matrix (ecm) that separates cell layers, such as epithelium from endothelium or a layer of connective tissue. The ecm layer that supports an overlying epithelium or endothelium is called basal lamina. Basement membrane (bm) can be formed by the fusion of either two adjacent basal laminae or a basal lamina with an adjacent reticular lamina of connective tissue. Bm, composed mainly of type IV collagen; glycoprotein laminin; and proteoglycan, provides barriers as well as channels between interacting cell layers. Thin Basement Membrane Nephropathy (TBMN).
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