Scabies: The diagnosis of atypical cases

In the current scabies pandemic, classic scabies is seen less frequently and special forms are becoming more common. The diagnosis of scabies has become, therefore, a challenge for clinicians. The well-known scabietic burrow is seen only very rarely today and, therefore, pathognomonic as it is, the diagnosis of scabies should not rely on this clinical sign. In our experience, examination of skin scrapings mounted on a slide with saline is the most practical bedside method and ideal for screening patients with suspected scabies. It is easy to perform, requires neither sophisticated tools nor special skill, and can be done in less than five minutes by every practitioner.