Pediculosis (Head Lice)

Pediculosis, commonly known as head lice infestation, is a very common condition, especially among school-going children. Although lice do not spread any serious disease, they cause significant itching, discomfort, and embarrassment. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment can help control this condition effectively.

What Are Head Lice?

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are small, wingless insects that live on the human scalp and feed on blood. They lay eggs (nits), which stick firmly to the hair shaft.

• Size: Seseme seed-like
• Color: Brownish/grey
• Cannot fly or jump
• Spread only by direct contact or sharing personal items. 

Causes of Pediculosis

Head lice spread mainly through:

1. Direct Head-to-Head Contact

• Most common cause
• Children at school, playgroups, or family gatherings

2. Sharing Personal Items

• Combs
• Hats, scarves
• Pillows, hair accessories
• Towels

3. Poor Hygiene Is NOT the Cause

Lice infestation does not mean someone is dirty. They occur in clean as well as unwashed hair.

Signs & Symptoms

1. Intense Itching

Caused by lice bites and allergic reaction to saliva.

2. Tickling Sensation

Movement of lice on scalp.

3. Visible Nits

Tiny white or yellowish eggs stuck on hair shafts near the scalp.

4. Sores on Scalp

Due to constant scratching, may lead to bacterial infection.

5. Irritability & Poor Sleep

Because lice are more active at night.

Who Is at Risk?

• Children (3–12 years)
• Students in schools or hostels
• Family members of infested children
• Caregivers, teachers, daycare workers

Is Pediculosis Contagious?

Yes.
Head lice spread easily but only through close contact or sharing personal items. They DO NOT spread from pets or through the air.

Diagnosis

You can diagnose lice at home by:

• Using a fine-toothed comb
• Checking behind ears and at nape of neck
• Looking for moving lice or attached nits

Doctors may confirm using magnifying light or dermatoscope.

Treatment of Pediculosis

1. Medicated Lotions & Shampoos

Common options (use as per doctor’s advice):

• Permethrin 1% lotion/shampoo
• Malathion 0.5% lotion
• Ivermectin 0.5% lotion
• Lindane (rarely used due to side effects)

Apply only on scalp, not full body.

Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice.

2. Oral Medications

For severe or repeated infestation:

• Oral Ivermectin (only under medical guidance)

3. Wet Combing

• Use a fine-metallic lice comb
• Condition the hair
• Comb section by section
• Repeat every 3–4 days for 2 weeks

4. Home Remedies (Optional & Supportive Only)

These may help but are not substitutes for medicated treatments:

• Tea tree oil (few drops mixed with oil)
• Neem oil
• Vinegar rinse (to loosen nits)

Note – 

      Always patch-test for allergies before 

      Applying .            

Prevention 

For Children

• Avoid head-to-head contact
• Don’t share combs, clips, or hats
• Tie long hair into braids or buns

For Home

• Wash pillow covers & towels in hot water
• Vacuum sofas, carpets
• Soak combs in hot water for 10 minutes
• Check family members regularly

Complications (If Untreated)

• Secondary skin infections
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or embarrassment
• Scalp dermatitis

FAQs About Pediculosis