Abstract

Psychiatric hospitals are at high risk of scabies epidemic because they serve patient groups with low compliance with hygiene rules and treatment compliance. Clinical experience in psychiatric services is important in improving knowledge regarding the management and control of the spread of scabies. This case report describes the management of a scabies outbreak in the psychiatric setting following the detection of scabies mites in a patient. In this context, possible resistance mechanisms to permethrin treatment and alternative prevention methods and treatment approaches are discussed using our clinical experience. After the outbreak started, 5% permethrin was applied to all patients in the environment every one week, but the disease could not be controlled. As a result, the disease was successfully treated by increasing hygiene measures to limit the cycle of spread of scabies and by applying 12.5% tar and 12.5% sulfur for three consecutive days to all patients, regardless of symptoms.

Key words: Scabies, Psychiatric service, Resistance to treatment, Permethrin