Drug of choice in scabies in pregnant woman is?
**Core Concept**
The management of scabies in pregnant women requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits of various treatment options. The drug of choice should have a favorable safety profile for both the mother and the fetus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is permethrin cream, as it is the preferred treatment for scabies in pregnant women. Permethrin cream is a topical agent that works by disrupting the scabies mite's nervous system, ultimately killing the mite. It is applied from the neck down to the toes and left on for 8-14 hours before washing off. Permethrin cream is considered safe for use in pregnancy, with minimal systemic absorption and no reported adverse effects on the fetus.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Lindane is another topical scabicide, but it is not the preferred choice in pregnancy due to its potential neurotoxicity and risk of seizures.
**Option B:** Ivermectin is an oral scabicide that can be used in pregnancy, but it is typically reserved for patients who have failed topical treatment or have severe scabies.
**Option C:** Sulfur ointment is a traditional treatment for scabies, but it is not as effective as permethrin cream and has a strong odor, making it less suitable for pregnant women.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Pregnant women with scabies should be treated simultaneously with all household contacts to prevent re-infestation.
**Correct Answer:** C. Ivermectin is an oral scabicide that can be used in pregnancy, but it is typically reserved for patients who have failed topical treatment or have severe scabies.