Could nummular eczema be mistaken as scabies?

Yes, nummular eczema and scabies can be mistaken for each other, as both conditions can cause similar symptoms such as itchy, round or oval skin lesions. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions that can help distinguish them:

Distribution: Nummular eczema typically affects the extremities, such as the arms and legs, while scabies usually affects the hands, wrists, elbows, buttocks, and genital area.

Lesions: The lesions of nummular eczema are typically coin-shaped (nummular) and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They may be red, scaly, and itchy. The lesions of scabies are usually smaller, about 1-2 millimeters in diameter, and have a central burrow where the scabies mite lives. These burrows may be visible as thin, wavy lines on the skin.

Itch: The itch associated with nummular eczema is usually worse at night, while the itch associated with scabies is typically worse at night but may also be present during the day.

Other symptoms: Nummular eczema can also cause dry skin, cracking, and scaling, while scabies can cause crusting, blisters, and secondary infections.

Scabies is contagious: Scabies can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or by sharing clothing, bedding, or towels that have been in contact with an infected person. Nummular eczema is not contagious.

If you are experiencing itchy skin lesions, it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.