Pediculosis

Overview

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Pediculosis refers to an infestation by lice, which are small, wingless insects that feed on human blood. The most common types affecting humans are head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis). These infestations can occur in people of all ages but are most commonly seen in children.

The most common types affecting humans are head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis). These infestations can occur in people of all ages but are most commonly seen in children.

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Symptoms
  • Itching: Intense itching is the most common symptom, caused by allergic reactions to louse saliva.
  • Red Bumps: Small red bumps or sores may appear on the scalp, neck, or other infested areas.
  • Visible Lice: Adult lice and nits (lice eggs) may be seen in hair or on clothing.
  • Irritability: Especially in children, due to discomfort from itching.
  • Secondary Infections: Scratching may lead to skin infections.
Complications
  • Skin Infections: Bacterial infections can occur from scratching.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Discomfort can lead to trouble sleeping.
  • Social Stigma: Lice infestations can lead to embarrassment and social isolation.
Causes

Pediculosis is primarily caused by direct contact with an infested person or through sharing personal items like combs, hats, or bedding. Lice can also be transferred indirectly through shared clothing or towels.

Prevention
  • Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or bedding.
  • Regular Head Checks: Periodic checks for lice and nits, especially in children.
  • Maintain Cleanliness: Regular washing of clothing and bedding in hot water can help eliminate lice.
Risk Factors
  • Close Contact: Being in close quarters with someone who has lice, such as in schools or daycare settings.
  • Age: Children aged 3-11 are at higher risk.
  • Poor Hygiene: Although lice can infest anyone, good hygiene may reduce the risk.
  • Living Conditions: Crowded living conditions may increase the risk of transmission.
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How is it treated?

  • Over-the-Counter Treatments: Permethrin or pyrethrin-based shampoos and lotions are commonly used.
  • Prescription Treatments: If OTC treatments fail, prescription options like malathion or ivermectin may be prescribed.
  • Manual Removal: Regularly combing hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice and nits.
  • Cleaning: Washing infested clothing and bedding in hot water and vacuuming living areas.
  • It's important to follow treatment instructions carefully and to check for lice regularly after treatment to prevent reinfestation.
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How is it Diagnosed?

Pediculosis, or lice infestation, is diagnosed primarily through visual inspection. It is caused by lice (Pediculus humanus capitis for head lice, corporis for body lice, and Phthirus pubis for pubic lice). Diagnosis involves a careful examination of the scalp, hair, or affected body areas for live lice or their nits (eggs). The most common symptom is intense itching due to an allergic reaction to louse saliva. In head lice cases, finetoothed lice combs can be used to detect lice and nits more effectively. The nits are small, oval, white or yellowish structures attached to the hair shaft near the scalp. They are often confused with dandruff but are not easily dislodged. In body lice infestations, lice or nits may be found in the seams of clothing rather than directly on the body. Pubic lice may be seen attached to pubic hair or even eyelashes. Magnification devices or dermoscopy may be used to enhance visibility. Secondary bacterial infection can occur due to scratching and may present with pustules or crusting. Diagnosis is clinical and does not typically require laboratory testing, though microscopic examination may confirm the presence of lice or nits if needed.

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