Abstract
Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the ectoparasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, affecting over 200 million individuals worldwide at any given time. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized this infection as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) since 2017. Scabies mainly affects underdeveloped, overcrowded, and resource-limited communities, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. Intense pruritus that gets worse at night and a distinctive rash with papules, burrows, and secondary bacterial infections from scratching are the clinical manifestations produced. Despite its pervasiveness, many national health agendas fail to adequately address it, misdiagnose it, and underreport it. Its persistence is further exacerbated by social stigma, a lack of awareness, and ineffective diagnosis and treatment. This review article highlights the disease's epidemiological significance, clinical manifestations, diagnostic capabilities, calls for enhanced surveillance, integrated control initiatives, and more funding for research.