Canterbury Health Laboratories wishes to advise, that the scabies scraping service will be discontinued from 1 November 2026.
A review of the service has noted that referral volumes are incredibly low and therefore no longer sustainable for training and competency requirements.
This change will align with other service providers and the advice on Community Health Pathways, which highlights the low sensitivity of scrapings, which are no longer recommended as a diagnostic test.
The diagnosis of scabies is mainly based on clinical history and physical examination, including dermoscopy.
Patients who have ongoing issues with scabies should receive a referral to Dermatology.
Microbiology - Bacteriology
SCAB