Pediculosis Capitis

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

The following symptoms and complaints may indicate pediculosis capitis (head lice infestation): Erythematous (“accompanied by redness of the skin“) papules (Latin: papula “vesicle”) and wheals. Severe pruritus (itching) [saliva of pediculosis capitis induces an immune response of the delayed type]. Occasional regional lymphadenopathy (lymph node enlargement) [due to bacterially colonized scratch defects] Other notes Occurrence … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Causes

Pathogenesis (development of disease) The head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis) belongs to the ectoparasites of humans, that are parasites that live on the body surface. They stay exclusively in the body heat. They belong to the bloodsuckers. All stages of development take place on the host. Freshly hatched nymphs (young lice) are 1-2 mm, adult … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Causes

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Therapy

General measures Bed linen, towels, etc. should be washed at 60 °C, this will kill lice and nits. Combs, hair clips, etc. should be cleaned with hot soap solution. Items that may come into contact with head lice, such as headgear, etc., should be stored in a plastic bag for three days without chemical additives. … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Therapy

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) is an important component in the diagnosis of pediculosis capitis (head lice infestation). Family history What is the general health of your relatives? Social history What is your profession? Do you live/work in a community facility? Current medical history/systemic history (somatic and psychological complaints). Have you noticed red papules on … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Medical History

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Or something else? Differential Diagnosis

Skin and subcutaneous (L00-L99). Eczema, unspecified Infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). Infestation with clothes louse (Pediculus humanus humanus), etc. Scabies (scabies) Injuries, poisonings, and other consequences of external causes (S00-T98). Insect bite, unspecified

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Complications

The following are the most important diseases or complications that may be contributed to by pediculosis capitis (head lice infestation): Infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). Superinfection of scratch wounds, especially on the back of the head, neck, and behind the ears (staphylococci and streptococci). Pediculosis capitis is potential vector of highly pathogenic bacteria: Bartonella quintana … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Complications

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Examination

A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps: General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body weight, height; furthermore: Inspection (viewing) of skin (especially scalp) [due tosymptoms: erythematous (“accompanied by redness of the skin”) papules (lat.: papula “vesicle”), occasionally regional lymphadenopathy (enlargement of lymph nodes)] Square brackets [ ] indicate … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Examination

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Test and Diagnosis

Laboratory diagnosis is usually not required. If necessary, diagnosis of active infestation (infestation with the parasite) only by the wet combing method.

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Drug Therapy

Therapeutic target Removal of the lice and the nits (eggs of the head louse). Therapy recommendations Optimal therapy: combination of chemical, mechanical and physical principles of action. Safe killing of nits is not given by pediculocides (group of active substances for pharmacological therapy of head lice infestation; usually pyrethroids and organophosphates; very neurotoxic). Therefore, the … Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Drug Therapy

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Diagnostic Tests

Medical device diagnosis is usually not required.

Head Lice Infestation (Pediculosis Capitis): Prevention

To prevent pediculosis capitis (head lice infestation), attention must be paid to reducing risk factors. Behavioral risk factors Transmission through close physical contact (“hair-to-hair contact”). Less common is transmission through objects that come into contact with the hair