Head lice.

BACKGROUND

Head lice infestation is a very common problem in children and causes a high level of anxiety among parents and childcare workers.

OBJECTIVE

In this article we attempt to clarify issues of diagnosis and treatment of head lice and offer recommendations for dealing with head lice.

DISCUSSION: Head lice are a nuisance, but they do not transmit infectious diseases. Control includes detection with wet comb technique. Treatment is usually with a topical pediculicide, but regular mechanical removal with conditioner and a comb is an alternative. Treatment failure can be the result of inadequate application of the treating product, pediculicide resistance, or failure to re-treat at 7-10 days. Reinfestation (and therefore apparent treatment failure) is common.