Abstract

Scabies is a contagious parasitic skin infestation that continues to represent a significant public health concern worldwide. In recent years, an increase in scabies cases has been observed, particularly in hospital settings, potentially influenced by population mobility and migration. Although scabies is primarily considered a dermatological condition, its implications in postoperative orthopedic patients remain underrecognized. This retrospective observational study analyzed dermatology consultations requested for inpatients admitted to the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology (DOT) within a defined study period. Data were obtained from the hospital information system. Patients diagnosed with scabies and patients with pruritus were included. Age, sex, reason for consultation, reason for orthopedic follow-up, anatomical region of the orthopedic pathology, and the time interval from admission to surgery were recorded. Temporal trends in diagnosis timing across years were evaluated. Scabies diagnoses among orthopedic inpatients demonstrated an increasing trend over the years. Most patients were hospitalized due to traumatic injuries, predominantly involving the lower extremities. Age distribution did not differ significantly between diagnostic subgroups. Scabies was most frequently diagnosed in the preoperative period. Notably, several patients were diagnosed based on non-specific cutaneous findings. Scabies infestation in orthopedic inpatients should not be regarded as a benign comorbidity. Delayed diagnosis, particularly in postoperative patients, may increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections and postoperative morbidity. The findings underscore the need for heightened clinical awareness and the development of standardized guidelines for the recognition and management of scabies in orthopedic and traumatology settings. The present study contributes clinical evidence that may serve as a foundation for future guideline development.

Key words: Emigrants and immigrants, musculoskeletal diseases, orthopedic surgery, pruritus, scabies