Most infested children suffer from pruritus, which in rare cases, the itch-scratch cycle can lead to irritability and loss of sleep as well as to secondary infection with impetigo and pyoderma. Swelling of the local lymph nodes and fever were reported infrequently.Accordingly any complication, such as secondary infections, resulting from the continuous scratching of the skin, should be treated with antibiotics prescribed by the physician (11).

It should be kept in mind that the main symptom of a louse infestation, i.e., the pruritus, becomes intense enough 4-8 weeks after the initial infestation. During this time the louse population increases and lice can infest other individuals.

It is important also to stress that the pruritus may continue for a week or so even after a successful treatment, due to the antigens, which are injected to the skin with the saliva of the louse.Head lice are not known to transmit any diseases.

 

A. Human lice
B. History
C. Morphology
D. Biology
E. Epidemiology
F. Clinical picture
G. Psychological effects
H. Diagnosis
I. Treatment
J. Prevention
K. Nits and nit removal remedies
L. The role of parents
M. Myths and misconceptions
N. Legal concerns
O. General recommendations
P. References