What Is “Norwegian Scabies”?
Scabies is a well-known infection that results in a particularly relentless and devastating itch that starts out slowly and increases in severity over time. The mites that cause the condition, scientifically known as Sarcoptes scabiei, burrow into the skin of infected humans. While they are so tiny that it’s not possible to see them with the naked eye, they can be appreciated by examination with a magnifying glass or microscope. Sometimes, doctors or others health-care providers may refer to “Norwegian” scabies, and this term can be confusing. The name seems to imply that the condition is caused by a specific type of mite that is found in Norway or that preferentially affects people of Norwegian descent, neither of which is true. The term “Norwegian scabies” refers instead to a particularly severe form of scabies that is also known as crusted scabies. Crusted scabies has been called Norwegian scabies because the condition was first described in Norway in the mid-19th century. Garden-va
Norwegian Scabies, also known as crusted Scabies or Norwegian Scabies, is the most severe form of Scabies. There is no difference between the Norwegian Scabies Mite and the common Scabies Mite. The significant distinction between these two forms of Scabies is primarily the number of skin mites that are present. Norwegian Scabies is more contagious because instead of several skin mites infesting your skin, you will have thousands or even millions. The skin crusts and falls off easily and these flaking scales contain an enormous number of the Mites, making Norwegian Scabies the most contagious of all forms of Scabies. Those with a compromised immune system or impairment are at higher risk of developing Norwegian Scabies. The most prevalent sites for severe outbreaks of Norwegian Scabies are hospitals, prisons, nursing homes, and homeless shelters. A few other circumstances that are specific to Norwegian Scabies are: • Very little itching • Often misdiagnosed as Psoriasis • May affect the
