Impetigo is sometimes misdiagnosed as Scabies

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Scabies, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Impetigo.

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that commonly affects infants and young children. It forms red sores around the nose, mouth, hands and feet. After a week the sores burst and develops paler coloured crusts. It is caused by a bacterial infection from staphylococci organisms. Dermatological conditions are difficult to diagnose and impetigo can be misdiagnosed as scabies, allergic reaction skin rashes like poison ivy, ring worm or chicken pox.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Soreness and mild itching, reddish sores around mouth and nose

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

Further reference: