What happens because of lice? - briefly
Lice infestations trigger persistent itching, erythema, and secondary bacterial infections of the scalp or body. Severe or prolonged cases can cause anemia, reduced weight gain, and impaired cognitive development in affected children.
What happens because of lice? - in detail
Lice are obligate ectoparasites that feed on human blood. Three species commonly affect people: Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice), Pediculus humanus corporis (body lice), and Pthirus pubis (pubic lice). Infestation initiates a cascade of physiological and social consequences.
Physical manifestations include:
- Persistent pruritus caused by saliva injection during feeding
- Erythema and papular lesions at attachment sites
- Excoriations that may become colonised by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to cellulitis or impetigo
- In severe body‑lice cases, secondary infection with Rickettsia prowazekii, Bartonella quintana, or Borrelia recurrentis, producing epidemic typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever respectively
Systemic effects arise when pathogens carried by body lice enter the bloodstream. These diseases present with high fever, rash, and, in some instances, fatal complications if untreated. Head‑lice infestations rarely transmit pathogens but can cause chronic skin irritation and secondary bacterial infection.
Psychological impact is measurable. Persistent itching disrupts sleep, reduces concentration, and may trigger anxiety or embarrassment. Social stigma frequently results in exclusion from school or workplace environments, amplifying distress and potentially lowering academic or occupational performance.
Economic repercussions stem from treatment costs and lost productivity. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides, prescription medications, and professional de‑lousing services generate direct expenses. Additional indirect costs include absenteeism, childcare arrangements, and repeated cleaning of clothing and bedding.
Treatment challenges intensify the problem. Resistance to common neurotoxic agents such as permethrin and malathion diminishes efficacy, necessitating combination therapies or mechanical removal methods. Effective eradication requires:
- Application of approved insecticidal products following manufacturer guidelines
- Systematic combing with fine‑toothed lice combs to extract nymphs and eggs
- Washing of all personal items at ≥ 60 °C or sealing them in airtight containers for two weeks
- Re‑treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice
«The presence of lice signals a breach in personal or communal hygiene and can precipitate serious health outcomes», emphasizes the World Health Organization. Prompt identification, comprehensive management, and education on preventive measures are essential to mitigate the extensive ramifications of lice infestations.