How can the presence of lice in a child be determined? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair using a fine-tooth comb, searching for live insects, firmly attached nits, or tiny black specks near the roots. Verify any suspected nits by removing them and examining under magnification to confirm they are viable eggs.
How can the presence of lice in a child be determined? - in detail
Detecting a head‑lice infestation in a child requires a systematic visual and tactile examination. The process can be broken down into several precise actions.
- Prepare the child: Choose a well‑lit area, preferably with natural light, and position the child’s head over a plain background. Use a fine‑tooth (0.5 mm) comb, a magnifying glass, and a disposable cape or towel to catch any dislodged insects.
- Inspect the scalp: Part the hair in sections, starting at the crown and moving outward. Look for live insects, which are grayish‑brown, wingless, and about 2–3 mm long. Their movement is rapid; a quick glance may be sufficient.
- Search for nits: Nits are oval, white or yellowish, and firmly attached to the hair shaft within 1 cm of the scalp. They appear as tiny beads and cannot be brushed off easily. Slide the comb through each section; any nits that cling to the teeth indicate a recent infestation.
- Differentiate from dandruff: Dandruff flakes are loosely attached and easily removed, whereas nits remain fixed. A gentle tug on a suspected nit will not dislodge it if it is indeed a nit.
- Examine other body sites: In rare cases, lice may be found on eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair. Conduct a brief visual check of these areas if the child reports itching elsewhere.
- Assess symptoms: Persistent itching, especially after a warm shower, suggests an allergic reaction to lice saliva. Note any secondary skin lesions caused by scratching.
- Check personal items: Inspect hats, scarves, hair accessories, and bedding for live insects or nits. Use the same fine‑tooth comb on fabric to uncover hidden specimens.
- Confirm with a professional: If uncertainty remains after the self‑examination, schedule a visit with a pediatrician or dermatologist. They can perform a more detailed evaluation, possibly using a handheld dermatoscope.
A definitive diagnosis is established when either a live louse is observed or viable nits are found within the close proximity of the scalp. Once confirmed, appropriate treatment protocols can be initiated.