What is the correct name for lice? - briefly
The proper term for the small, wingless parasitic insects that infest humans is lice (singular : louse), scientifically classified as Pediculus humanus. Head‑lice, body‑lice and pubic‑lice denote the common subtypes.
What is the correct name for lice? - in detail
The accurate term for the insects commonly called lice is the scientific name derived from their taxonomic classification. In entomology, these ectoparasites belong to the order Phthiraptera, suborder Anoplura, and are collectively referred to as “pediculids.”
Human‑infesting pediculids are divided into three distinct species, each with a specific scientific designation:
- « Pediculus humanus capitis » – head louse, inhabits scalp hair and feeds on blood.
- « Pediculus humanus corporis » – body louse, lives in clothing seams and moves to the skin to feed.
- « Pthirus pubis » – pubic louse, colonizes coarse body hair, especially in the genital region.
These names follow the binomial nomenclature established by Carl Linnaeus, providing a universal reference for researchers and healthcare professionals. The genus name « Pediculus » originates from Latin pediculus, meaning “little louse,” while « Pthirus » derives from Greek phtheir, also indicating a small parasitic insect.
Medical coding systems, such as the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‑10), adopt these scientific labels: L01 for head lice, B85.0 for body lice, and B85.1 for pubic lice. Consistent use of the binomial names eliminates ambiguity caused by regional common names like “crabs” or “nits.”
In scientific literature, the term “pediculosis” denotes an infestation by any of the above species, and the adjective “pediculid” describes organisms belonging to this group. Precise terminology ensures clear communication across disciplines, from clinical diagnosis to epidemiological reporting.
Therefore, the proper designation for lice, when referring to human‑associated species, comprises the three binomial names listed above, collectively classified within the order Phthiraptera.