Using ultraviolet dermoscopy in diagnosing scabies

The latest generation ultraviolet (UV) dermatoscopes, which emit UV light at a wavelength of 365 nm and enlarge lesions, are practical devices that can facilitate the diagnosis and follow-up of some dermatological diseases with fluorescence that can be observed in skin lesions. In 305 patients, 468 tunnels were evaluated: first in polarized mode and later in UV mode. The recorded samples were compared one-to-one by the same dermatologist. Due to the study's design, images were examined in three stages: tunnel borders, tunnel content and mite appearance. In UV mode, the entire body of mites gives a bright reflex along with an oval-shaped diagnostic clue well beyond the delta sign. The borders of the tunnel reflect brightly in UV mode, with borders that are more sharply visible than in polarized mode. Although the tunnel content cannot be clearly distinguished in polarized mode, especially in people with hyperkeratotic palms, or 'working hands' (e.g. farmers, mechanics and construction workers), with the bright reflex, the tunnel borders in UV mode give a bright reflection and provide a clear view of tunnels. Tunnel content gives a bright reflection in UV mode. Our results show that UV dermatoscopes provide more effective and clearer images than polarized dermatoscopes in the diagnosis of scabies.

Scabies: Refine your exam, avoid these diagnostic pitfalls

Nearly half of all infections are missed when first examined. Attentiveness to specific details, particularly in 3 common scenarios, can help ensure an accurate Dx.

Dermatoscopy and Reflectance Confocal Microscopy Correlations in Nonmelanocytic Disorders

Dermatoscopy and in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy are noninvasive techniques that provide a horizontal approach, with an en face view of the skin structures. Both techniques assist in the clinical diagnosis of a variety of inflammatory and infectious cutaneous disorders. In many cases, they have shown concordance. Their combined use represents, in several instances, a promising option to reach the final diagnosis without the need for invasive procedures.

[Acute hematogenic osteomyelitis after impetiginized scabies]

A 15 year old boy with scabies has been treated with local form of therapy for 3 month without effect. He was then admitted to our pediatric clinic with pyrexia and restricted movement of the right knee. The med. history, the consequent laboratory findings, positive bloodcultures, skin swabs and bone scintigraphy lead to diagnosis of acute haem. osteomyelitis. The early antibiotic therapy assured uneventful recovery.