Head Lice:
Alternative names:
lice - head; nits; pediculosis; pediculosis capitis
Treatment:
Over-the-counter and prescription lotions and shampoos are
available that are reasonably effective. Evidence of increasing
resistance to these pediculocides is growing making it increasingly
difficult to clear up infections. Bed clothing, combs, brushes,
hats and other personal hygiene items must be disinfected
(typically washed in hot soapy water) to prevent re-infestation.
This should be done at the time the child is treated.
Examples of medications used include:
- Kwell lotion (available by prescription only)
- Nix (available over-the-counter)
- Rid (available over-the-counter)
Remembered that these medications are, in reality, insecticides
and should be used exactly as directed and no more frequently
than recommended in the package insert. New products are available
that loosen the bond between the nit (egg sack) and the hair
shaft so that the nits can be easily removed. Remove nits
with a nit comb. Removal of all nits may prevent reinfection
if the medication fails to kill all of the eggs.Some physicians
have recommended smothering the lice as an adjunct to standard
treatment since resistance to the pediculocides is increasing.
They recommend copious amounts of olive oil rubbed into the
hair, covered with a shower cap and left on overnight.
Expectations (prognosis):
Lice are usually killed with treatment. Re-infestation is
possible, and if the source of the infestation is not corrected
(for example a classroom with many infected children) the
re-infestation is probable.
Complications:
Some people will develop a secondary skin infection from scratching.
Calling your health care provider:
Apply home treatment and call the health care provider if
symptoms persist after treatment.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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