When lice are on the head, what is the condition called? - briefly
The medical term for a scalp infestation of lice is pediculosis capitis, commonly called a head‑lice infestation. Treatment involves topical insecticides and meticulous combing to remove the insects and their eggs.
When lice are on the head, what is the condition called? - in detail
The medical designation for an infestation of head‑dwelling lice is pediculosis capitis. This parasitic condition results from the presence of Pediculus humanus capitis, a small, wingless insect that feeds on human blood.
Typical manifestations include:
- Itching of the scalp caused by allergic reactions to saliva.
- Visible live lice or nymphs attached to hair shafts.
- Small, darkened eggs (nits) adhered to the base of hair strands, often mistaken for dandruff.
Transmission occurs through direct head‑to‑head contact or sharing of personal items such as combs, hats, and bedding. The life cycle completes in about three weeks, during which a single female can lay up to 150 eggs, leading to rapid population growth if untreated.
Effective management involves:
- Mechanical removal of lice and nits using a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair.
- Application of topical pediculicides containing permethrin, pyrethrin, or dimethicone, following manufacturer guidelines to ensure sufficient exposure.
- Re‑treatment after seven to ten days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
- Laundering of clothing, towels, and bedding at temperatures of at least 60 °C or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks to kill resistant stages.
Preventive measures include avoiding head contact in crowded settings, not sharing personal grooming tools, and conducting routine inspections in environments where outbreaks are common, such as schools and daycare centers. Early detection and prompt treatment limit spread and reduce discomfort associated with the infestation.