Diseases
lice
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Head lice are tiny insects that feed on blood from the human scalp. Head lice most often affect children. The insects usually spread through direct transfer from the hair of one person to the hair of another.
Symptoms
- itching
- lice on scalp
- lice eggs (nits) on hair shafts
- sores on the scalp, neck and shoulders.
Causes
- a head louse is a tan or grayish insect about the size of a strawberry seed
- head lice crawl, but they can't jump or fly. head lice often spread from one person to another by direct head-to-head
- head lice may also spread when items of clothing are stored together.
Risk factors
- head lice are spread primarily by direct head-to-head contact.
- so the risk of spreading head lice is greatest among children who play or go to
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- visual inspection.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is lice?
Head lice are tiny insects that feed on blood from the human scalp. Head lice most often affect children. The insects usually spread through direct transfer from the hair of one person to the hair of another.
What are the symptoms of lice?
itching, lice on scalp, lice eggs (nits) on hair shafts, sores on the scalp, neck and shoulders.
What causes lice?
a head louse is a tan or grayish insect about the size of a strawberry seed; head lice crawl, but they can't jump or fly. head lice often spread from one person to another by direct head-to-head; head lice may also spread when items of clothing are stored together.
Which medicines are used for lice?
benzyl benzoate, ivermectin, malathion, permethrin, phenothrin
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