From April through October 2008, 40 patients hospitalized at Rakuwakai Otowa Hospital were treated for scabies using oral ivermectin and external benzyl benzoate eurax. All patients were over 65 years of age.
During or after their treatment, five of these patients showed abnormal blood chemistry ; however, the blood chemistry of all five patients returned to normal without any additional medicines. Two patients died of causes relating to pre-existing critical diseases. Two patients treated with ivermectin had previous minor liver disorders but showed no abnormal effects in their blood test data. Due to
Sarcoptes scabiei’s life cycle, it was believed that at least two administrations would be needed ; however, only 71% of scabies were cured after two administrations and twelve patients required more than three administrations.
Based on this experience, during an outbreak of scabies in a closed community, such as a hospital, including groups of elderly individuals, we suggest ivermectin as a safe and effective treatment.
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