What is the disease called when a person has lice? - briefly
The infestation of lice is medically termed pediculosis, with head‑lice infection specifically called pediculosis capitis.
What is the disease called when a person has lice? - in detail
The medical condition produced by an infestation of lice is termed pediculosis. Pediculosis refers to the presence of any species of lice on the human body and is classified according to the anatomical site of infestation.
- Head pediculosis – caused by Pediculus humanus capitis; common among school‑age children.
- Body pediculosis – caused by Pediculus humanus corporis; associated with poor hygiene and crowded living conditions.
- Pubic pediculosis – caused by Pthirus pubis; transmitted through sexual contact or close personal contact.
Transmission
Lice spread primarily by direct head‑to‑head or body contact. Indirect transfer can occur via contaminated clothing, bedding, hats, or combs. Body lice move to clothing seams and lay eggs, while head lice remain on the scalp.
Clinical manifestations
- Intense itching due to allergic reaction to saliva and feces.
- Presence of live lice and nits (eggs) attached to hair shafts or clothing fibers.
- Small erythematous papules or secondary bacterial infection from scratching.
Diagnosis
Visual inspection under magnification confirms live insects or viable nits. Dermoscopy or tape‑sampling may aid detection when infestation is light.
Therapeutic options
- Topical pediculicides containing permethrin 1 % or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide; applied to dry hair or skin for the recommended duration.
- Oral ivermectin for resistant cases or extensive body lice infestations.
- Mechanical removal of nits using fine-toothed combs; repeated after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Laundering clothing and bedding at ≥60 °C or sealing in plastic bags for two weeks to eradicate body lice eggs.
Prevention
- Regular head‑to‑head contact avoidance in group settings.
- Prompt treatment of identified cases and thorough cleaning of personal items.
- Maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding sharing combs, hats, or bedding.
Pediculosis, while not life‑threatening, can cause significant discomfort and secondary infections if left untreated. Effective management relies on accurate identification, appropriate pharmacologic therapy, and diligent environmental control.