Pediculosis/Lice

exp date isn't null, but text field is

ICD10 CODE: B85

Infestation by lice, usually in the hairy parts of the body. Usually found on the scalp, armpits, chest or pubic area.

Cause

• Pediculosis humanus (capitis, corporis, pubis)
• Usually transmitted directly by person-to-person contact but may also be transmitted indirectly via the clothing, towels, and bedding of infested persons

Clinical features

• Severe itching of affected areas, scratch marks
• Nits (white eggs) attached to hairs
• Direct observation of lice
• Continued scratching may lead to secondary bacterial infection and eczemas

Differential diagnosis

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Investigations

• Direct observation of lice/nits

Management

Treatment	LOC
Shave the affected area Apply pediculocide to kill lice Apply benzyl benzoate lotion 25% and leave on overnight Child 2-12 years: dilute the lotion with an equal part of water before application Child <2 years: dilute 1 part of lotion with 3 parts of water, leave on for 12 hours. Apply ONLY once Comb with a fine toothed comb if not shaved	HC2
Note: Head lice Do not use undiluted Benzyl Benzoate A in children <2 years. It is very irritating to the eyes If the head is not shaved, ensure that the Benzyl Benzoate A is massaged well into the scalp Soak all brushes and combs in Benzyl Benzoate A for at least 2 hours Pubic lice Treat all sexual partners at the same time

Prevention

• Personal hygiene (washing clothes and regular bathing)
• Avoid close contact with infected people
• Treat the whole family
• Avoid sharing combs, towels, etc