What is treated when a person has lice? - briefly
The medical condition targeted is «pediculosis», an infestation of lice on the scalp or body. Treatment involves topical pediculicides, fine‑toothed combing, and, when necessary, oral medication.
What is treated when a person has lice? - in detail
When an individual is infested with head‑lice, the therapeutic goal is to eradicate the parasites and prevent reinfestation. Effective management combines chemical, mechanical, and environmental actions.
Chemical agents applied to the scalp and hair constitute the primary line of defense. Commonly used pediculicides include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied for ten minutes before rinsing.
- Pyrethrins combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, used according to label instructions.
- Malathion 0.5 % liquid, recommended for resistant cases.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, applied for ten minutes and left on the scalp.
- Spinosad 0.9 % suspension, applied for ten minutes.
Oral medication may be considered when topical treatment fails or is contraindicated. Options are:
- Single‑dose ivermectin tablets, weight‑adjusted.
- Azithromycin, administered in a short course for severe cases.
Mechanical removal involves thorough combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb. The procedure requires:
- Wetting hair with a conditioner to reduce slip.
- Sliding the comb from scalp to ends in successive passes.
- Repeating the process every two to three days for at least ten days.
Environmental measures aim to eliminate surviving eggs and nymphs outside the host. Recommended actions are:
- Washing clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Sealing non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove detached lice.
Follow‑up examinations should occur 7–10 days after initial treatment to confirm the absence of live insects. Persistent detection warrants retreatment with an alternative agent, considering documented resistance patterns.
Special populations require tailored approaches. For infants younger than two months, pregnant or lactating women, and individuals with known allergies, non‑chemical methods such as wet combing and environmental control are preferred, with pharmacologic options reserved for severe infestations under medical supervision.