Resurgence of Scabies

This study on the current status of scabies is based upon information obtained from a survey form completed by 86 American and 73 foreign dermatologists, and comprehensive review of the world literature. Although the disease became uncommon in the 1950s, there has been since 1963 and 1964 a progressive increase in scabies in many parts of the world, to epidemic proportions in some areas. The epidemic has not yet involved the United States or Canada, except for sporadic outbreaks and small foci (mainly hippies). The cause of this recent resurgence is not clear; demographic and immunologic considerations seem particularly worthy of further study.