Sensitivity of Self-collected Skin Sampling for Scabies: a Pilot Study

Last updated: August 6, 2024
Sponsor: Radboud University Medical Center
Overall Status: Active - Recruiting

Phase

1

Condition

Rash

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Stds)

Treatment

Skin sampling

Clinical Study ID

NCT06546579
NL86424.091.24
  • Ages > 18
  • All Genders
  • Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Summary

In this cross-sectional diagnostic study, healthy adults aged 18 and older with suspected, clinical, or confirmed scabies will be recruited. The objective is to determine if the sensitivity of self-collected skin samples for scabies diagnosis is non-inferior to professional sampling, and compare the sensitivity and specificity of the polymerase chain reaction assay (PCR) versus microscopy.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • 18 years or older

  • Have either suspected scabies, clinical scabies or confirmed scabies (see table 1)

  • Providing informed consent (IC)

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Individuals not speaking or understanding the Dutch or English language.

  • Individuals who have been diagnosed with scabies in the last six weeks and hadstarted treatment.

  • Individuals who have used ivermectin for other diagnoses than scabies in the lastsix weeks.

  • Individuals younger than 18 years.

  • Individuals with immunosuppressive conditions (see appendix A).

  • Any other condition, finding or situation which, in the opinion of the investigator,may significantly increase the risk to the individual because of participation inthe study, affect the ability of the individual to participate in the study orimpair interpretation of the study data.

Study Design

Total Participants: 144
Treatment Group(s): 1
Primary Treatment: Skin sampling
Phase: 1
Study Start date:
August 21, 2024
Estimated Completion Date:
June 30, 2025

Study Description

Scabies infestations have significantly increased globally in the last 10-20 years, including a threefold rise in the Netherlands over the past decade. Diagnosing scabies is challenging due to varied symptoms and low sensitivity of current microscopic methods. New diagnostic techniques like PCR, which offer higher sensitivity, are being investigated. The feasibility of self-collected skin samples is being explored to reduce the burden on healthcare services and address issues like autonomy, stigma, and privacy.

In this cross-sectional diagnostic study, healthy adults aged 18 and older with suspected, clinical, or confirmed scabies will be included. Primary endpoint is the sensitivity of self-collected versus professional skin samples for diagnosing scabies. Secondary endpoints include sensitivity of skin scrapings and swabs, and the sensitivity and specificity of PCR versus microscopy.

Participants will self-collect skin samples during a standard care visit. The process may be slightly sensitive but not painful. There are no direct benefits beyond standard care.

Connect with a study center

  • Radboudumc

    Nijmegen, Gelderland 6525GA
    Netherlands

    Active - Recruiting

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