Which doctor treats lice? - briefly
Lice infestations are usually handled by dermatologists, pediatricians, or primary‑care physicians. Treatment includes medicated shampoos or lotions and thorough removal of nits.
Which doctor treats lice? - in detail
Head lice infestations, medically termed pediculosis capitis, are diagnosed and managed by health‑care providers trained in skin and parasitic conditions. Primary care physicians, including family doctors and pediatricians, are usually the first point of contact because they routinely examine children and adults for common ailments. These clinicians can confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits through visual inspection and prescribe appropriate medication.
Dermatologists specialize in disorders of the skin, hair, and nails. When infestations persist after initial therapy, or when atypical presentations occur, a dermatologist may be consulted. Their expertise includes selecting prescription‑strength agents, performing thorough lice removal, and addressing secondary skin irritation.
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants, working under the supervision of physicians, are authorized to diagnose lice and dispense treatment. They often provide counseling on application techniques, environmental decontamination, and follow‑up schedules.
Typical treatment regimens involve:
- Topical insecticides such as permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair for ten minutes, then rinsed.
- Oral ivermectin for cases resistant to topical agents or for patients with contraindications to topical therapy.
- Manual removal using fine‑toothed lice combs, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks.
After initial treatment, patients should return for a follow‑up examination within one week to verify eradication. Persistent or recurrent cases may require alternative medications, combination therapy, or referral to a dermatologist for specialized care.