Retrospective Evaluation of Eosinophil Counts and Total IgE Levels in Children With Scabies

Abstract

Scabies is a common parasitic skin infestation in children that may cause elevated eosinophil counts and total IgE levels. Because these findings resemble those of atopic dermatitis and other allergic diseases, scabies is often misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary allergy referrals. This study aimed to determine eosinophil counts and total IgE levels in children diagnosed with scabies, assess their frequency, and highlight the importance of considering scabies in the differential diagnosis of atopic and allergic conditions. This retrospective cross-sectional study included children aged 0–18 years diagnosed with scabies according to the 2020 International Alliance for Scabies Control criteria before October 30, 2024, who were referred to the Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Clinic of Osmaniye State Hospital. Data on patients’ demographics, family history of scabies, bacterial skin infections, eosinophil counts, total IgE levels, and treatment were collected from medical records. Of all patients, 32.2% were female and 67.8% male, with a median age of 30 months. The median eosinophil count was 516.88/µL, and the mean total IgE level was 427.44 IU/mL. The median eosinophil percentage was 5.58%; 53.9% had eosinophil percentages ≥4%, and 53% had total IgE levels ≥100 IU/mL. Additionally, 40% had no family history of scabies, and 23% had bacterial skin infections. More than half of the patients exhibited elevated eosinophil counts and total IgE levels. In children presenting with pruritus and rash, scabies should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially when eosinophilia or high IgE is present. © 2026, Yuzuncu Yil Universitesi Tip Fakultesi. All rights reserved.