WHEN THE ITCHING ATTACKS - MANAGEMENT OF SCABIES IN CHILDREN

Introduction/objective: Scabies is a common parasitic infestation in the pediatric population, the global prevalence was estimated at 300,000 million cases. The diagnosis is clinical and an outbreak of scabies depends on the strict implementation of infection control measures and proper treatment. The work aims to review the literature on the treatment of scabies in children. Methods: Researches were performed on the CochraneLibrary, UpToDate, DynaMed, Medline, BMJ BestPractice,published in the last 10 years, in English and Portuguese , by using the MESH terms“scabies treatment’’and “children’’. Results: From the research resulted 3 guidelines,3 systemic reviews and 1 meta-analysis. From their analysis the topical permethrin 5% was the most effective with fewer side effects but sulfur 6-10% is the treatment of choice for children less than two months. The Crotamiton is approved by the FDA for treatment scabies only in the adult. Lindane 1% due to high toxicity level is no longer marketed in Europe, having your license removed in 2008.The topical benzyl benzoate 10-25% is recommended as the first line in some countries in Europe. Ivermectin is the only oral drug, used in some countries in cases of resistant scabies, is not licensed in most countries and in Portugal is not commercialized, existing only for hospital use. Should not be used in children under 2 years. Conclusions: Scabies remains a parasitic disease common in children whose treatment is a major challenge. Evidence was good in order to use permethrin 5% and sulfur 6-10% in the treatment of scabies in children. However,more studies are needed in order to compare the various drugs.