Which doctor should be consulted when lice appear? - briefly
A primary‑care physician—pediatrician for children or family doctor for adults—should be consulted first for a lice infestation; they can prescribe effective medication and, if necessary, refer the patient to a dermatologist for specialized care.
Which doctor should be consulted when lice appear? - in detail
When lice are detected, the first point of contact should be a primary‑care physician or a pediatrician for children. These clinicians can confirm the diagnosis, recommend over‑the‑counter or prescription pediculicides, and provide guidance on removing nits.
If the infestation persists after two treatment cycles, or if the scalp shows signs of secondary infection (redness, swelling, pus), a referral to a dermatologist is appropriate. Dermatologists have expertise in managing resistant lice and can prescribe stronger topical agents or oral medications such as ivermectin.
In rare cases where lice infestations are widespread, recurrent, or associated with systemic symptoms, an infectious‑disease specialist may be consulted for advanced therapeutic options and public‑health advice.
A concise care pathway:
- Initial assessment – Primary‑care physician or pediatrician confirms lice and prescribes first‑line treatment.
- Follow‑up – If treatment fails after two attempts, see a dermatologist for alternative regimens.
- Complex cases – Infectious‑disease specialist involvement when there is extensive spread, treatment resistance, or accompanying systemic illness.
School nurses or community health workers can assist with education on prevention and proper use of treatments but are not substitutes for medical evaluation. Prompt medical consultation reduces the risk of secondary infection and limits transmission.