Dermatologic Care for Refugees: Effective Management of Scabies and Pediculosis

Cutis. 2024 Apr;113(4):E16-E21. doi: 10.12788/cutis.0999.

Abstract

There is a large burden of treatable dermatologic conditions in refugee populations. Parasitic infestations are particularly common when there are barriers to basic hygiene, crowded living or travel conditions, and lack of access to health care. Body lice are associated with anemia and can transmit a variety of diseases; chronic impetigo secondary to scabies is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease globally. Dermatologists have unique skills to identify skin infections, inflammatory diseases, and infestations. Appropriate dermatologic care has the potential to improve overall outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Lice Infestations* / diagnosis
  • Lice Infestations* / therapy
  • Pediculus
  • Refugees*
  • Sarcoptes scabiei
  • Scabies* / diagnosis
  • Scabies* / therapy