Lice

Question 1

Define lice.

Answer 1

There are three types of lice that infest humans:

Pediculus humanus var. capitis – head lice

Pediculus humanus var. corporis – body lice

Phthirus pubis – pubic lice

Question 2

What is the aetiology of lice? What are risk factors for lice?

Answer 2

They are a very common problem in children 4–14 years of age.

Risk factors for infestation include:

Female sex

Greater number of children in a family

Sharing beds, clothing and hair brushes

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of lice.

Answer 3

At any given time, 1-5% of a school’s population have lice

Question 4

What are the signs and symptoms of lice?

Answer 4

Pruritis

Dermatitis

Presence of lice or nits

Question 5

What is the management for lice?

Answer 5

Malathoin - resistance has reduced the cure rate to 33%

Spinosad

Ivermectin

4% dimethicone - high cure rate 69-92%

Question 6

What are complications of lice?

Answer 6

Dermatitis

Secondary bacterial infection - Impetigo

Tender swollen lymph nodes

Question 7

What is the prognosis for lice?

Answer 7

Usually treatment is effective if maintained.