How to distinguish clothing lice? - briefly
Clothing lice are recognized by their tiny, flattened bodies (2–4 mm), pale‑to‑reddish color, and habit of hiding in seams, folds, or under collars. Distinguishing features include winglessness, six clawed legs, and swift movement when the garment is disturbed.
How to distinguish clothing lice? - in detail
Clothing lice, also known as body lice, can be recognized by specific physical traits and by the damage they cause to fabrics. Adult specimens measure 2–4 mm, have a flattened, grey‑brown body, and lack the wings seen in head lice. Their legs are long, adapted for moving through seams and folds. Nymphs resemble smaller versions of adults, shedding their exoskeleton three times before reaching maturity. Eggs (nits) are oval, about 0.8 mm, and are firmly glued to fibers near the base of a seam rather than to hair shafts.
Key indicators that differentiate clothing lice from other pests include:
- Location of infestation: Concentrated in the seams, pockets, and underarm areas of garments, especially those worn for extended periods without regular washing.
- Pattern of skin lesions: Intense itching accompanied by small red papules or macules, often appearing in clusters on the lower abdomen, hips, and thighs.
- Presence of fecal spots: Dark, pinprick‑size stains on fabric, representing digested blood excreted by the insects.
- Absence of lice on the scalp: Unlike head lice, body lice do not inhabit hair; their entire life cycle occurs on clothing and the skin beneath.
Detection methods:
- Visual inspection: Use a magnifying lens to examine seams, cuffs, and folds for live insects, nits, or exuviae (shed skins).
- Tape test: Press clear adhesive tape onto suspect areas, then examine the tape under a light source for captured lice or eggs.
- Skin examination: Look for characteristic bite marks and scratching lesions, especially in areas where clothing fits tightly.
Control measures:
- Launder at 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes: Heat kills all life stages.
- Dry on high heat for 20 minutes: Complements washing, ensuring any surviving specimens are eliminated.
- Isolate infested items: Store untreated clothing in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of two weeks to break the life cycle.
- Personal hygiene: Daily bathing and changing into clean garments prevent re‑infestation.
By focusing on these diagnostic features and employing systematic inspection and treatment protocols, one can reliably identify clothing lice and separate them from other arthropod nuisances.