What is the disease caused by lice in humans called? - briefly
The medical condition caused by human lice infestation is called pediculosis. Specific forms include pediculosis capitis (head lice) and pediculosis corporis (body lice).
What is the disease caused by lice in humans called? - in detail
Pediculosis is the medical term for the condition that results from infestation with lice (Pediculidae). Human lice are classified into three species: head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis). Each species occupies a specific niche on the host, but all cause irritation, pruritus, and secondary skin lesions.
Symptoms differ by lice type. Head‑lice infestation produces intense itching of the scalp, visible nits attached to hair shafts, and occasional excoriations. Body‑lice infestation leads to itching of the body and clothing, the appearance of small reddish‑brown macules where lice feed, and a characteristic “sandpaper” feeling. Pubic‑lice infestation causes itching of the genital area, erythematous papules, and sometimes visible insects.
Complications arise when lice act as vectors for bacterial pathogens. Body lice can transmit:
- Rickettsia prowazekii (epidemic typhus)
- Borrelia recurrentis (relapsing fever)
- Bartonella quintana (trench fever)
These infections may produce fever, rash, severe headache, and, in untreated cases, high mortality.
Diagnosis relies on visual identification of live lice or nits on the host’s hair, clothing, or skin. Microscopic examination of collected specimens confirms species. Laboratory testing for associated bacterial infections includes serology and PCR when systemic symptoms are present.
Treatment protocols include:
- Topical pediculicides (permethrin 1 %, malathion 0.5 %) applied to affected areas according to manufacturer instructions.
- Mechanical removal of nits with fine‑toothed combs; repeated sessions at 7‑day intervals prevent hatching.
- For body lice, laundering clothing and bedding at ≥55 °C or sealing items in plastic bags for two weeks eliminates hidden populations.
- Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) offers an alternative for resistant cases or extensive infestations.
- Antibiotic therapy (doxycycline, azithromycin) addresses vector‑borne bacterial diseases when indicated.
Prevention emphasizes personal hygiene, regular hair grooming, and avoidance of sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or clothing. In institutional settings, routine screening, prompt treatment of identified cases, and environmental decontamination reduce transmission.
Epidemiologically, pediculosis remains prevalent worldwide, affecting all age groups. Head‑lice infestation is most common among school‑aged children, while body‑lice outbreaks occur in crowded, unhygienic conditions, including refugee camps and homeless populations. Pubic‑lice infestation correlates with sexual contact and is reported across diverse demographic groups.
Overall, pediculosis denotes the disease caused by lice in humans; effective management combines pharmacologic agents, mechanical removal, and environmental control to eradicate infestation and prevent secondary infections.