Predicting the evolution of clinical skin aging in a multi-ethnic population: Developing causal Bayesian networks using dermatological expertise.

INTRODUCTION: Software to predict the impact of aging on physical appearance is increasingly popular. But it does not consider the complex interplay of factors that contribute to skin aging. OBJECTIVES: To predict the +15-year progression of clinical signs of skin aging by developing Causal Bayesian Belief Networks (CBBNs) using expert knowledge from dermatologists. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Structures and conditional probability distributions were elicited worldwide from dermatologists with experience of at least 15 years in aesthetics. CBBN models were built for all phototypes and for ages ranging from 18 to 65 years, focusing on wrinkles, pigmentary heterogeneity and facial ptosis. Models were also evaluated by a group of independent dermatologists ensuring the quality of prediction of the cumulative effects of extrinsic and intrinsic skin aging factors, especially the distribution of scores for clinical signs 15 years after the initial assessment. RESULTS: For easiness, only models on African skins are presented in this paper. The forehead wrinkle evolution model has been detailed. Specific atlas and extrinsic factors of facial aging were used for this skin type. But the prediction method has been validated for all phototypes, and for all clinical signs of facial aging. CONCLUSION: This method proposes a skin aging model that predicts the aging process for each clinical sign, considering endogenous and exogenous factors. It simulates aging curves according to lifestyle. It can be used as a preventive tool and could be coupled with a generative AI algorithm to visualize aging and, potentially, other skin conditions, using appropriate images.

Low prevalence of scabies and impetigo in Dakar/Senegal: A cluster-randomised, cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND: Scabies, a parasitic infection caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, is a public health problem with significant morbidity worldwide, particularly in low-resource countries. Impetigo, a complication of scabies infection, is a risk factor for sepsis, glomerulonephritis and possibly acute rheumatic fever. Currently, the majority of epidemiological data has been collected in rural populations in the Pacific with limited applicability to urban populations in sub-Saharan Africa, where scabies is also believed to be a problem. To inform future public health programs, more reliable information about the burden of disease is required. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: In July/August 2022, we conducted a cross sectional, cluster-randomised, household survey in Pikine/Dakar using the 'International Association for the Control of Scabies (IACS)' criteria to diagnose scabies and impetigo. All participants underwent a standardised clinical examination by post-graduate dermatology students. For those diagnosed with scabies, an age-adapted 'Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)' questionnaire was filled. We recruited and examined 1697 participants to detect 27 cases of scabies (prevalence: 1.6%, 95% CI 0.8-3.2), mostly in school aged children. Ten participants suffered from impetigo (prevalence: 0.6%, 95% CI 0.3-1.3), 5 of which were dually infected with scabies. Risk factors for scabies infection were young age, male gender and Koranic school attendance. Of those found to have scabies, in 7 out of 22 cases (31.8%) it had a large effect on their lives according to the DLQI questionnaires filled. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: This study adds to the mapping of the burden of scabies across Africa to support public health action. With a low prevalence of scabies that is concentrated amongst poor households and children attending Koranic schools, a focused public health approach targeting Koranic schools and poor households seems to be most appropriate in this community.

Diagnosis, Management, and Outcome of Bart's Syndrome Observed in a Sub-Saharan African Country (Senegal, Dakar): 2 Case Reports.

Introduction: Bart's syndrome is an uncommon inherited congenital disorder associating congenital cutaneous aplasia of the extremities and inherited epidermolysis bullosa. Bilateral and symmetrical involvement of the limbs is exceptionally described on black skin. In most cases, the diagnosis is clinical; however, the management remains very difficult and the extended forms are a real therapeutic challenge. We report 2 cases of Bart's syndrome observed in a sub-Saharan African country (Senegal, Dakar). Case Presentation: It was about 2 premature female and male newborns. On physical examination, the girl presented with a total absence of skin on the limbs, associated with cutaneous detachment of the trunk representing a detached and detachable skin surface of 46%; the boy underwent a total absence of skin of more than 50% of the skin surface. The diagnosis of Bart's syndrome was set based on the typical clinical aspect. The blood count and CRP were normal for the girl whereas it revealed some disorders for the boy. The 2 newborns were urgently admitted to an incubator, and the intensive care was started with hyperhydration, anti-staphylococcal prophylaxis, and daily dermatological care with antiseptic baths and fatty dressings. Conclusion: Bart's syndrome is an uncommon genodermatosis characterized by a clinical triad associating congenital cutaneous aplasia of the extremities, inherited epidermolysis bullosa suspected in the presence of bubbles, and areas of cutaneous fragility and nail deformity. All types of which can be associated with this syndrome. The easy clinical diagnosis but the difficult management encumber the vital prognosis of our cases.

Fungal mycetoma and pregnancy: An association with costly and difficult management, about a case.

Mycetomas are endemic diseases in tropical and sub-tropical countries of Africa, Asia and America, mainly affecting rural populations living below the poverty line. We report a particular case of a mycetoma associated with pregnancy whose evolution was good, but at the cost of significant financial expenses. This was a 39-year-old woman who developed a fungal mycetoma due to Madurella mycetomatis from the ingunocrural region. The patient had to develop several previous pregnancies on this site of mycetoma, the outcome of which was favorable. The last pregnancy was accompanied by an aggravation of the mycetoma in the form of polyfistulized inflammatory swelling of the right inguino-crural region emitting black grains. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the region showed invasion of the adductor muscles at the level of the root of the thigh on its antero-internal side with no sign of pelvic extension or underlying bone lesion. The patient was treated by surgery associated with antifungal treatment. The evolution was favorable for pregnancy and mycetoma.

Sun exposure behaviours as a compromise to paradoxical injunctions: Insight from a worldwide survey.

BACKGROUND: Behavioural interventions can improve attitudes towards sun protection but the impact remains inconsistent worldwide. OBJECTIVE: To assess awareness of and attitudes towards the multiple facets of sun exposure and suggest ways to improve prevention from overexposure to the sun in all geographical zones and multiple skin types. METHODS: Online survey was conducted from 28 September to 18 October 2021. Study population was selected from the Ipsos online Panel (3,540,000 panellists), aged ≥18 years, from 17 countries around the five continents. Demographics, sun-exposure habits and practices, understanding of risks and information on phototypes were documented and analysed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Eighty-eight per cent of participants knew that sunlight can cause skin health problems (90% phototypes I-II, 82% phototypes V-VI, >90% in American and European countries, 72% in Asia and 85% in Africa). Eighty-five per cent used some form of protection against sunlight, predominantly: Seeking shade (77%), avoiding the midday sun (66%), facial application of sunscreen (60%) and wearing protective clothing (44%). The perception of sunlight itself is positive ('it gives energy' for 82%; 'tanned skin looks attractive' for 72%), although less in Asian countries and among individuals with dark skin phototypes. Eighty-three per cent reported having experienced sunburn, mainly in Australia, Canada, USA, Germany, France and Russia, and among individuals with dark skin phototypes. Only 12% systematically/often used all types of protection during exposure to the sun and 23% believed it is safe to go out in the sun with no protection when their skin is already tanned. From 13% (skin phototype I) to 26% (phototype VI) reported not using any form of protection against the sun. Knowledge and habits were significantly superior among people who are accustomed to seeing a dermatologist for a complete skin exam. CONCLUSIONS: Dermatologists could play a crucial role in relaying novel prevention messages, more finely tailored to specific risks, populations and areas of the world.

[Extrapodal mycetomas in Senegal: epidemiological, clinical and etiological study of 82 cases diagnosed from 2000 to 2020]. / Les mycétomes extrapodaux au Sénégal : étude épidémiologique, clinique et étiologique de 82 cas diagnostiqués de 2000 à 2020.

Objectives: Although the foot remains the main localization of mycetomas, extrapodal attacks, which are rarely studied, are also possible and occur either initially or following an extension. The objectives were to describe the epidemiological, clinical and etiological features of extrapodal mycetomas in Senegal. Methodology: Cross-sectional and retrospective study with multicentric enrollment in four reference department, two of which are in dermatology and two in orthopedics and traumatology. We included the files of patients with extrapodal mycetoma followed from January 2000 to December 2020. The data were analysed with SPSS software. Any p less than or equal to 0.05 was statistically significant. Results: We collected 82 cases representing 39% of mycetoma cases (n = 210). The average age was 41.9. The sex ratio was 3.1. Professionally, most patients were active farmers in 51% of cases (n = 33), pastoralists and housewives in 9 % (n = 6) respectively. The mean duration of evolution was 7.5 years. Exclusively extrapodal topographies were noted in 84% of cases (n = 69). Foot and extrapodal locations were concomitant in 16% of cases (n = 13). Mycetoma foci were distributed as follows: 59 in the trunk, 47 in the lower limbs, 9 in the upper limbs, 1 in the scalp and 1 in the neck. The etiology was actinomycotic in 46% of cases (n = 38), fungal in 38% (n = 31). It was not specified in 16% of cases (n = 13). Bone involvement occurs after 5 years (p = 0.001) unrelated to the etiology (p = 0.6). Conclusion: Extrapodal mycetomas are secondary to direct inoculation. However, extension to bone is exclusively due to diagnostic delay. Periodic consultations in endemic areas combined with training of resident health personnel are necessary for early diagnosis in order to improve the prognosis.

A framework for scabies control.

Scabies is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that causes a significant health burden, particularly in disadvantaged communities and where there is overcrowding. There is emerging evidence that ivermectin-based mass drug administration (MDA) can reduce the prevalence of scabies in some settings, but evidence remains limited, and there are no formal guidelines to inform control efforts. An informal World Health Organization (WHO) consultation was organized to find agreement on strategies for global control. The consultation resulted in a framework for scabies control and recommendations for mapping of disease burden, delivery of interventions, and establishing monitoring and evaluation. Key operational research priorities were identified. This framework will allow countries to set control targets for scabies as part of national NTD strategic plans and develop control strategies using MDA for high-prevalence regions and outbreak situations. As further evidence and experience are collected and strategies are refined over time, formal guidelines can be developed. The control of scabies and the reduction of the health burden of scabies and associated conditions will be vital to achieving the targets set in WHO Roadmap for NTDs for 2021 to 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Mycetoma in West Africa.

BACKGROUND: Mycetoma is a neglected disease, which is socioeconomically important, and with the possibility of permanent disability in infected persons if not treated early. This is especially true in resource-limited settings such as West Africa, where there is a lack of facilities and skilled personnel to make a definitive laboratory diagnosis. Countries in West Africa have similar climatic conditions to Sudan. The majority of patients seek medical care very late, when there is already bone involvement, resulting in amputations. This results in poor capture of the true burden of the problem in the literature. METHODS: A review of the literature revealed about 2685 documented cases in West Africa from 1929 to 2020; from 15 out of 16 countries, Senegal accounted for 74.1% (1943) of cases in the subregion. RESULTS: The majority of lesions were found on the foot; however, other body parts were also reported. Rural dwellers accounted for most cases. Only 547 (20.4%) cases had identified isolates reported. Actinomycetoma accounted for 47.9% of cases, eumycetoma 39.7% and unidentified pathogens 12.4%. Actinomadura pelletieri was the predominant pathogen isolated (21.4%; 117 isolates). CONCLUSION: There is a dire need for capacity building, provision of facility and health education to raise awareness of this debilitating disease in West Africa.

Epidemiology, clinical features, and associated factors in 78 cases of lichen planus on black skin.

BACKGROUND: The pathogenesis of lichen planus (LP) is mostly autoimmune, while psychological and infectious factors are recognized to trigger or aggravate the disease. An association with diabetes is reported. Our objective was to determine the epidemio-clinical characteristics of LP and its associated factors. METHODS: This multicentric, prospective study was conducted over a 6-month period. The histopathology was only performed for atypical forms. Patients with a notion of drug intake before the rash were excluded. Anti-hepatitis C Virus (HCV) antibodies screening was systematical in case of mucosal damage. The data were analyzed using the SPSS IBM 20 software. RESULTS: The average age was 38 years. Women represented 84.6% (n = 66) of the studied population. The patients were married in 61.5%. Obesity or overweight status was noted in 41%. A marital or relational conflict was found in 25.6%. History of LP was reported in 24.4% (n = 19). Pruritus was found in 96.2%. The locations were as follows: skin (97.4%), mucous membranes (15.4%), and hair and nails (5.1%). Lesions were diffuse in 56.4%. The clinical forms were as follows: typical (52.6%), erythematosquamous (17%), warty (14.5%), pigmented (14.5%), and blaschkolinear (one case). Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of LP in 91.4%. Blood sugar level was high in one case. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was positive in 3.03%. Anti-HIV and anti-HCV antibodies were negative. CONCLUSION: Lichen planus is a relatively rare disease in sub-Saharan Africa and is seen more in adults. The clinical manifestations are polymorphic, but the mucosal damage is rarely isolated.

[Epidemiological and anatomoclinical features of scalp tumors in black Africans]. / Aspects épidémiologiques et anatomo-cliniques des tumeurs du cuir chevelu chez le noir africain.

INTRODUCTION: In Senegal, the studies on scalp tumors are almost non-existent. The purpose of our study was to determine the epidemiological and anatomoclinical features of scalp tumors in dermatology. METHODS: We conducted a prospective descriptive and analytical study in both Department of Dermatology at Dakar over a period of 16 months (01 March 2014-30 June 2015). Histopathological examination was used to confirm the diagnosis. RESULTS: We collected data from the medical records of 36 patients, of whom 14 had malignant tumors and 22 benign tumors. Sex ratio was 1.1, the average age of patients with malignant tumors was 51 years while the average age of patients with benign tumors was 39 years. Hospitalization rate was 0.18%. The average time of consultation in patients with malignant tumors was 14 months, while in patients with benign tumors was 52 months. In 11 patients with malignant tumors, first treatment was based on traditional therapy. Malignant tumors included: squamous cell carcinoma (n=8), basal-cell carcinoma (n=3), lymphoma, hidradenocarcinoma and Darier-Ferrand dermatofibrosarcoma (one case for each type). Benign tumors included: botriomycoma (n=5), trichilemmal cyst, sebaceous hamartoma, cylindroma and lipoma (2 cases for each type), heloid, syringocystadenoma papilliferum, schwannoma, neurofibroma and nevus (one case for each type). Tumor malignancy was associated to ulcero-budding appearance (p=0.003), diameter >4 cm (p=0.05), pain (p=0.009) and bleeding (p= 0.006). CONCLUSION: Scalp tumors in black people are usually benign. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant form.

[Pityriasis versicolor in infants: unusual clinical presentation and role of corticosteroids used as depigmenting agent for cosmetic purposes in the mother]. / Pityriasis versicolor chez des nourrissons: aspect clinique inhabituel et rôle de la dépigmentation cosmétique par des corticoïdes chez la mère.

We report two cases of Pityriasis versicolor (PV) in infants aged 12 and 18 months. The latter were brought to medical attention because of hypochromic and achromic, round macules involving the limbs and the face. Physical examination of their mothers showed voluntary depigmentation for cosmetic purposes due to the use of corticosteroids and hydroquinone, on average, over a 5-year period. The scotch tape test performed in one of the infants and his mother showed short filaments and clusters of spores. Treatment was based on ketoconazole. After 8 weeks, all patients reported favorable outcomes despite the persistence of some hypochomic macules. The peculiarities of this study are, on the one hand the topography of the lower limbs and on the other hand a positive family history of PV whose occurrence is favored by the use of depigmenting agents based on corticosteroids. Corticosteroids favor the atrophic and achromic feature of the lesions. Indeed, achromic lesions on the lower limbs were described in adults undergoing artificial depigmentation.

Risk factors associated with abscess formation among patient with leg erysipelas (cellulitis) in sub-Saharan Africa: a multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Abscess formation is a frequent local complication of leg erysipelas. In this study we aimed at identifying factors associated with abscess formation of leg erysipelas in patients in sub-Saharan African countries. METHOD: This is a multicenter prospective study conducted in dermatology units in eight sub-Saharan African countries from October 2013 to September 2014. We performed univariate and multivariate analysis to compare characteristics among the group of patients with leg erysipelas complicated with abscess against those without this complication. RESULTS: In this study, 562 cases of leg erysipelas were recruited in the eight sub-Saharan African countries. The mean age of patients was 43.67 years (SD =16.8) (Range: 15 to 88 years) with a sex-ratio (M/F) of 5/1. Out of the 562 cases, 63 patients (11.2%) had abscess formation as a complication. In multivariate analysis showed that the main associated factors with this complication were: nicotine addiction (aOR = 3.7; 95 % CI = [1.3 - 10.7]) and delayed antibiotic treatment initiation (delay of 10 days or more) (aOR = 4.6; 95 % CI = [1.8 - 11.8]). CONCLUSION: Delayed antibiotics treatment and nicotine addiction are the main risk factors associated with abscess formation of leg erysipelas in these countries. However, chronic alcohol intake, which is currently found in Europe as a potential risk factor, was less frequent in our study.

Behçet's disease in black skin. A retrospective study of 50 cases in Dakar.

INTRODUCTION: Although Behçet's disease is well-documented in Eastern populations, epidemiologic data in Sub-Saharan African population is scarce. The aim of this study was to define the epidemiologic and therapeutic aspects as well as clinical course of Behçet's disease in African black population. RESULTS: The study included 50 patients with Behçet's disease. The average age was 32 (18-67) years. A total of 31 patients were men and 19 were women. Two patients had a positive family history of Behçet's disease. The oral and genital aphthous lesions were present in 100% of patients. The pathergy test was positive in 16 patients (32%). Following skin conditions were observed: pseudofolliculitis in 15 patients (30%), acneiform papules in 6 patients (12%), erythema nodosum in 4 patients (8%) and leg ulcers in one patient. Ocular involvement was reported in 22 patients (44%) and joint involvement in 20 patients (40%). Neurological abnormalities were noted in 12 patients (24%). Gastrointestinal involvement with wide and deep ulcerations in the ileocecal region was observed in a patient. As treatment, a combination of oral corticosteroids and colchicine was used in 97% of our patients. Thalidomide was introduced in 3 patients and anticoagulation treatment in 19 patients. Clinical improvement was noted in 25 patients (50%), recurrence in 14 patients (28%) and 3 patients were lost to follow (6%). CONCLUSION: The Behçet's disease is not uncommon in black skin and generally affects young adults. Severe aphthous ulcers of the oral cavity and genital area are the most consistent finding.

[Endemic Kaposi's sarcoma in Dakar: 29 cases]. / Maladie de kaposi endemique a Dakar: etude de 29 cas.

INTRODUCTION: There is a lack of data on endemic Kaposi's sarcoma in sub-Saharan Africa. The goal of this study was to clarify its epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects in that region. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A 7-years retrospective study, including all patients with endemic Kaposi's disease diagnosis was carried out. RESULTS: We identified 29 cases of endemic Kaposi's representing 1.2% of total hospitalizations and an incidence of 4.4. The mean age and the sex ratio were 63.2 years 2.22 respectively. The average delayed time to seek for medical care was 6.75 months. Cutaneous manifestations were dominated by angiomatous papulonodular lesions in 15 cases (51.72%) ulcerated lesions in 8 cases (27.58%), lymphedema in 5 cases (17.24%), a sarcomatous degeneration in 2 cases and verrucous papules in one case. Mucosal involvement was observed in 7 cases (24.13%). The extracutaneous lesions were noted in 18 cases, with 6 cases of bone, 5 cases of lymph nodes, 5 cases of gastrointestinal and 2 cases of lung involvement. The outcome was favorable for single-agent chemotherapy with bleomycin in more than half of the cases. Recurrences were observed in 2 patients, 2 cases were died and 7 cases never came back. CONCLUSION: Endemic Kaposi's disease is more frequent in elderly people with a higher frequency of extracutaneous involvement and florid forms.

INTRODUCTION: En Afrique sub-saharienne il existe peu de données concernant la maladie de kaposi endémique. L'objectif de ce travail, était de préciser ses aspects épidémiologiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques. MALADES ET MÉTHODES: Une étude rétrospective d'une durée de 7 ans, recensant tous les malades présentant une maladie de kaposi endémique. RÉSULTATS: Nous avions recensé 29 cas de maladie de kaposi endémique représentant 1,2% des hospitalisés soit une fréquence annuelle de 4,14 cas par an. La moyenne d'âge était de 63,2 ans et le sex-ratio de 2,22. Le délai moyen de consultation était de 6.75 mois. Les manifestations cutanées étaient dominées par les lésions papulo-nodulaires angiomateuses dans 15 cas (51,72%), de lésions ulcérées dans 8 cas (27,58 %), d'un lymphœdème dans 5 cas (17,24%), une dégénérescence sarcomateuse sans 2 cas et des papules verruqueuses dans un cas. Les localisations muqueuses étaient notées dans 7 cas (24,13%). Les atteintes extracutanées notées dans 18 cas, étaient osseuses dans 6 cas, ganglionnaires dans 5 cas, digestives dans 5 cas et pulmonaires dans 2 cas. L'évolution était favorable sous monochimiothérapie à la bléomycine dans plus de la moitié des cas. Les récidives étaient observées chez 2 malades, des perdus de vus dans 7cas et 2 cas de décès. CONCLUSION: La maladie de kaposi endémique prédomine chez les personnes âgées avec une fréquence élevée des atteintes extracutanées et des formes florides.

Antiphospholipid antibodies and systemic scleroderma.

OBJECTIVE: Antiphospholipid antibodies (APLs) could be associated with an increased risk of vascular pathologies in systemic scleroderma. The aim of our study was to search for APLs in patients affected by systemic scleroderma and to evaluate their involvement in the clinical manifestations of this disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study, from January 2009 until August 2010, with patients received at the Department of Dermatology (Dakar, Senegal). Blood samples were taken at the hematology laboratory and were analyzed for the presence of APLs. RESULTS: Forty patients were recruited. Various types of either isolated or associated APLs were found in 23 patients, i.e. 57.5% of the study population. The most frequently encountered antibody was IgG anti-ß2 GPI (37.5% of the patients), followed by anticardiolipins (17.5%) and lupus anticoagulants (5%). No statistically significant association of positive antiphospholipid-related tests to any of the scleroderma complications could be demonstrated. CONCLUSION: A high proportion of patients showing association of systemic scleroderma and APLs suggests the presence of a morbid correlation between these 2 pathologies. It would be useful to follow a cohort of patients affected by systemic scleroderma in order to monitor vascular complications following confirmation of the presence of antiphospholipid syndrome. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None declared.

The vitiligo in senegal.

The aim of our study was to determine the epidemiological and clinical aspects of vitiligo in the largest dermatology department of Senegal. A cross-sectional and descriptive study in a period of 5 months was performed covering all the vitiligo cases. Fifty patients were identified (26 women and 24 men). The mean age was 26.5 years. A family history of vitiligo was found in 11 cases and a psychoaffective disturbance in 6 cases. The clinical forms distinguished were generalized vitiligo (n = 33), localized vitiligo (n = 16), vitiligo universalis (n = 4), and segmental vitiligo (n = 1). The Koebner phenomenon was found in 7 cases. Associated diseases were atopic dermatitis (n = 2), contact dermatitis (n = 1), diabetes (n = 1), and Graves' disease (n = 1). The disgraceful character of Vitiligo was the predominance of generalized forms and the elective localization in sun-exposed areas. The family character, the psychoaffective disturbances, the Koebner phenomenon increased by the lifestyle and the itching dermatosis were the aggravating factors.

Ivermectin versus benzyl benzoate applied once or twice to treat human scabies in Dakar, Senegal: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of oral ivermectin (IV) and two different modalities of topical benzyl benzoate (BB) for treating scabies in a community setting. METHODS: The trial included patients aged 5-65 years with scabies who attended the dermatology department at the Institut d'Hygiène Sociale in Dakar, Senegal. The randomized, open trial considered three treatments: a single application of 12.5% BB over 24 hours (BB1 group), two applications of BB, each over 24 hours (BB2 group), and oral IV, 150-200 microg/kg (IV group). The primary endpoint was the disappearance of skin lesions and itching at day 14. If necessary, treatment was repeated and patients were evaluated until cured. Results were analysed on an intention-to-treat basis. A pre-planned intermediate analysis was carried out after the BB1, BB2 and IV groups had recruited 68, 48 and 65 patients, respectively. FINDINGS: At day 14, 33 patients (68.8%) in the BB2 group were cured versus 37 (54.4%) in the BB1 group and 16 (24.6%) in the IV group (P < 10-6). Bacterial superinfection occurred more often in the IV group than in the BB1 and BB2 groups combined (28% versus 7.8%, respectively; P = 0.006). At day 28, 46 patients (95.8%) in the BB2 group were cured versus 52 (76.5%) in the BB1 group and 28 (43.1%) in the IV group (P < 10-5). These clear findings prompted early study cessation. CONCLUSION: Topical BB was clearly more effective than oral IV for treating scabies in a Senegalese community.