7 Commonly Mistaken Conditions For Scabies

Scabies is a skin condition caused by a mite known as Sarcoptes scabies. They can have other disease conditions, which can be mistaken for scabies, also called psoriasis, eczema, or contact dermatitis. It looks like a pimple on the skin or small blisters, which are very common in all disease conditions. But what can be mistaken for scabies? There is no doubt many experts misdiagnose the disease condition sometimes; a fair idea of the condition is essential for the proper treatment.

What can be mistaken for scabies?

1 Papular Urticaria

This condition can be mistaken for scabies, as it occurs by insect biting. I have listed some symptoms related to papular dermatitis.

• Itchy
• Clusters
• Bumps

The bumps are mainly present in the legs, forearms, and face. Treatment

• Topical steroid cream
• Steroids
• Antihistamines
• Antiseptic cream

Also Read: 10 Things you Need to Consider when Buying Steroids

2 Psoriasis

Many conditions are similar to scabies. Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder. This means the cells fasten the growth of new cells that bind to the tissue. As a result, it makes scaly patches on the skin. A study revealed that 80-90% people who suffer from psoriasis could end up with plaque. You must be thinking of symptoms that can be mistaken for scabies." I have listed some signs and symptoms that you should know.

• Thick patches are primarily found in the elbow, knees, lower back, face, and palms
• Silvery scales
• Plaques

Psoriasis can sometimes appear like scabies because of the crust formation. Many symptoms are almost similar to scabies. For people with a fair complexion, psoriasis occurs in light pink or red. However, on browner skin, the color changes to salmon or like the scales of silvery white fish. When we come to a darker complexion, the color changes to violet, and the scales appear grey.

How can psoriasis be treated?

There are a variety of alternatives to treat psoriasis. I have mentioned all of these in the categories. Topical treatment is the first recommendation for every doctor. A study showed that topical ointments are effective in treating mild psoriasis.

1. Emollients - Emollients help to remove irritation and skin itching. Therefore, it is best to use it on psoriasis. It will relieve your discomfort.
2. Coal tar - Coal tar helps to reduce the itchiness and swelling that occurs due to psoriasis. It also slows down the growth of skin cells.
3. Topical corticosteroids - Corticosteroids help relieve skin conditions. It works immediately when directly applied to the skin as it helps reduce inflammation of the skin.
4. Salicylic Acid - Salicyclic acid helps to soften the scales and alleviate the swelling. You can prescribe this ointment if you are looking for effective psoriasis treatment.
5. Topical retinoids - Retinoids are another type of retinoids of Vitamin A. It contains tazarotene, which helps treat psoriasis.

Also Read: 13 Ways To Reduce Inflammation in The Body Fast

3 Folliculitis

A skin infection develops in the hair follicles. However, what do scabie bites look like? It occurs due to damaged follicles and bacteria called Staph aureus.

Also Read: How To Pass a Hair Follicle Test In 2 Days?

Treatment It can be quickly cured by following 2 months and applying a warm compress. It will also be managed by an oral antibiotic.

4 Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is what can be mistaken for scabies. This is due to the appearance of similar symptoms in the body. I will explain in detail the things that occur in the body. Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory response and is not contagious. Many studies have reported that acute dermatitis is most common in children. I will explain the details of the signs and symptoms of acute dermatitis that seem to be scabies.

• Itchiness
• Dry patches
• Hardened
• Itching

Treatment 

The treatment of atopic dermatitis may vary from doctor to doctor. I have come up with proper treatment so that you should not miss it. A few studies suggested that NB-UVB phototherapy showed tremendous benefits in treating acute dermatitis. Medications that you should consider while having acute dermatitis.

• Steroids
• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines

Also Read: 13 Best Eczema Creams in 2023

Dermatologists may also recommend the following:

• Avoid scratching
• Skin Moisturizer
• It uses fragrance-free soaps
• Apply ointments and avoid which are not dermatologist-tested moisturizers.

5 Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Detergents, solvents, and acids mainly cause contact dermatitis. It could also show a severe condition and what do scabies bites look like? When a substance causes an allergy it is called allergic contact dermatitis. I have listed down some symptoms that help diagnose contact dermatitis.

• Itchiness
• Rash
• Swelling
• Tender skin
• Dry skin
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Oxyxing of blisters
• Crust
• Scales

Treatment - I have listed some first-line treatments that are necessary to treat contact dermatitis.

• Corticosteroids
• Prednisone
• Antihistamines

Also Read: The Dark Side of Epidural Steroid Injection: Know When to Consult a Doctor

6 Dermatitis Herpetiformis

This rare condition causes a severe itchy disease that causes blisters and lesions. It appears commonly on the head, lower back, buttocks, and elbows. It occurs mainly with celiac disease.

7 Prurigo Nodularis

In this condition, an itchy and firm bump will occur. That is what can be mistaken for scabies. The symptoms of prurigo nodularis are mainly due to the lower arms and legs.

What does scabies rash look like?

Rashes that resemble scabies but are not truly scabies can be perplexing. Scabies occur like a rash or blister causing scales and lesions on the armpits, buttocks, and along the penile shaft. Itchiness typically stays between 1 and 4 days, but it can take 2-6 weeks. Some people affected with different types of scabies know and crusted scabies. So, rashes that look like scabies. 

When to visit a doctor?

You should not delay the treatment if you are severely affected by an allergic reaction. Suppose your condition gets worse after the treatment. It would help if you did not wait for it. At least have a word with your doctor. People may experience worse conditions. Some were hospitalized for a few days to get proper treatment.

Conclusion

What can be mistaken for scabies? I have explained most of the conditions which can be mistaken for scabies. All these things are to be considered for proper treatment. Never diagnose a skin condition by yourself. Visit the doctor as soon as possible. Rash and itchiness are seen in all disease conditions. But differentiation can be understood through clinical inspection.

There is a variety of treatments related to scabies. Suppose you need more clarification about your treatment. Are you in a dilemma about which doctor is best for you? You can contact the Credihealth team who will assist you in providing the appropriate advice and care for you and your loved ones. 

Book an online appointment with the Dermatologist Doctors in India.