Sarcoptic skin disease in natives of the territory of New Guinea

Abstract
(1) The skin disease known in the Territory of New Guinea as “kas-kas” is described and figured. (2) Observations are recorded showing that Sarcoptes scabiei can be found in a considerable percentage of cases. (3) A variety of crusted scabies is described and figured with histological findings. The similarity to Norwegian scabies is noted. (4) Attention is drawn to the similarity between “kas-kas” and the “craw-craw” of Sierra Leone as described and figured by Blacklock. In conclusion, one ventures to express the hope that, although this investigation fell far short of a conclusive termination and leaves many aspects of the subject untouched, the notes here given may serve as a stimulus to further study of native skin conditions in that corner of the Pacific in which the writer works, and may perhaps result in a more determined effort to treat and prevent a disease which is a cause of much disability and economic loss, and which is readily amenable to properly applied methods.

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