Clinical evaluation of an after-pediculicide nit removal system.

A significant problem in the management of pediculosis is the removal of nits from the hair after pediculicide treatment. This study describes use of a nit removal system incorporating a cream rinse containing formic acid that loosens the bond between the nit and hair. Twenty-four children with pediculosis capitis, age 4 to 12 years, were evaluated. Sections of hair with equivalent numbers of nits were identified as control or test sites. Combining for 5 minutes after use of the formic acid rinse removed 93.5% of nits compared with a 27.6% reduction in the control section (p less than 0.0001). These results demonstrate that use of this nit removal system greatly facilitates nit removal.