(B85.0) Pediculosis due to pediculus humanus capitis

Pediculosis due to pediculus humanus capitis is an infestation of the scalp caused by head lice. the lice feed on blood from the scalp and lay eggs on the hair shafts, which hatch into nymphs and then into adult lice. it is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infested person or through contact with contaminated items such as hats, combs, and brushes.

Pediculosis is caused by the parasitic louse, pediculus humanus capitis, which feeds on human blood. the lice attach to the scalp and lay eggs, which hatch into nymphs. nymphs molt three times before becoming adults and the cycle of feeding, mating, and egg laying begins again. the intense itching caused by the lice's bites is the primary symptom of pediculosis.

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• Physical examination of the scalp for presence of lice
• Identification of lice under a microscope
• Testing for the presence of lice eggs (nits) on the hair shafts
• Inspection of the person's clothing and bedding for lice or eggs
• Treatment with topical or oral medications to kill lice and their eggs

Additions:

• Repeat the treatment after 7-10 days to kill any new lice that have hatched
• Clean and disinfect clothes, bedding, and other items that may have been exposed to lice

Main goal of the treatment: To eradicate Pediculus humanus capitis and reduce symptoms associated with pediculosis.

• Treat affected individuals with an appropriate pediculicide.
• Educate affected individuals and their families about the transmission, prevention, and treatment of pediculosis.
• Advise affected individuals to avoid close contact with other individuals and to avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, bedding, and clothing.
• Advise affected individuals to wash their hair and scalp thoroughly with a pediculicidal shampoo.
• Advise affected individuals to use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice eggs (nits) from the hair.
• Advise affected individuals to vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats.
• Advise affected individuals to wash bedding, clothing, and other items in hot water and dry in a hot dryer.
• Advise affected individuals to dry-clean any items that cannot be washed.
• Advise affected individuals to consult a physician if symptoms persist or worsen.

The best way to prevent pediculosis due to pediculus humanus capitis is to practice good hygiene habits such as regular shampooing of the hair and avoiding sharing hairbrushes, hats, and other personal items with others. it is also important to avoid close contact with people who have an active infestation.