Pediculosis Capitis (Head Lice) | Figure 4.38
A: Scabies*
B: Body lice in clothing*
C: Pediculosis capitis*
*Courtesy of Dr. Paul Getz |
(Figure 4.38C) - Due to Pediculus humanus capitis, a bloodsucking, wingless insect
- Feeds every 4–6 h; female lays 5–10 eggs/day close to scalp, cemented to hair
- Presents as scalp pruritus with nits commonly found behind ears and at nape of neck
- Treatment: two applications 1 week apart of pediculicide
- Malathion: organophosphate, flammable
- Lindane: organochloride, not first line, neurologic toxicity (seizures, confusion, etc.)
- Permethrin: synthetic pyrethroid, resistance high
- Pyrethrin: naturally occurring pyrethroid extract, resistance high
| | | | | | Pyrethrins: derived from chrysanthemum flower
(so contraindication if allergic to ragweed or chrysanthemums) | | | | | |
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