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Fu YT, Yao C, Deng YP, Elsheikha HM, Shao R, Zhu XQ, Liu GH. Human pediculosis, a global public health problem. Infect Dis Poverty 2022; 11:58. [PMID: 35619191 PMCID: PMC9134731 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-022-00986-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human pediculosis is caused by hematophagous lice, which are transmitted between individuals via direct and/or indirect contact. Despite the public health importance of louse infestation, information concerning the global burden of pediculosis and the epidemiological landscape of louse-borne diseases is limited. The aim of this review was to summarize the biology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and control of lice infestation in humans. We also discussed the latest advances in molecular taxonomy and molecular genetics of lice. METHODS We searched five electronic bibliographic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, CNKI, VIP Chinese Journal Database, and Wanfang Data) and followed a standard approach for conducting scoping reviews to identify studies on various aspects of human lice. Relevant information reported in the identified studies were collated, categorized, and summarized. RESULTS A total of 282 studies were eligible for the final review. Human pediculosis remains a public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that head lice and body lice should be considered conspecific, with different genotypes and ecotypes. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial (mt) cytb gene sequences identified six distinct clades of lice worldwide. In addition to the direct effect on human health, lice can serve as vectors of disease-causing pathogens. The use of insecticides plays a crucial role in the treatment and prevention of louse infestation. Genome sequencing has advanced our knowledge of the genetic structure and evolutionary biology of human lice. CONCLUSIONS Human pediculosis is a public health problem affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly in developing countries. More progress can be made if emphasis is placed on the use of emerging omics technologies to elucidate the mechanisms that underpin the physiological, ecological, and evolutionary aspects of lice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tian Fu
- Research Center for Parasites and Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Chaoqun Yao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Yuan-Ping Deng
- Research Center for Parasites and Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan China
| | - Hany M. Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD UK
| | - Renfu Shao
- Centre for Bioinnovation, School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556 Australia
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801 Shanxi China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan 650201 People’s Republic of China
| | - Guo-Hua Liu
- Research Center for Parasites and Vectors, College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan China
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Bartosik K, Janczaruk M, Zając Z, Sędzikowska A, Kulisz J, Woźniak A, Jasztal-Kniażuk A, Kulbaka E, Tytuła A. Head Lice Infestation in Schoolchildren, in Poland-Is There a Chance for Change? J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030783. [PMID: 35160233 PMCID: PMC8837132 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediculosis capitis is a current and neglected health issue worldwide. The lack of screening programs contributes to the marginalization of the problem and delays therapeutic measures. Our study aimed to analyze the occurrence of this parasitosis in primary schools in Poland and to determine factors contributing to the persistence of its foci. The research tools were two questionnaires: one for primary school children and the other for school managers. While children answered questions about the epidemiology of pediculosis capitis and expressed their opinion on the hygienic condition of infested persons, the school directors were asked about the occurrence of head lice in schools, preventive measures, and institutions supporting schools in combating the infestation. The survey covered the period 2014–2018. Pediculosis capitis was reported in 87.5% of the schools. The greatest number of cases was reported in the group of 6–9 year-olds (68%). Among 4970 children, 16.7% had no knowledge of head lice; however, 57.1% wanted to increase their awareness of the problem. Campaigns on lice were conducted mainly as a result of emerging pediculosis capitis cases, and most schools could not rely on institutional support. Screening programs and preventive educational campaigns should be part of pediculosis capitis control in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Bartosik
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11, 20-080 Lublin, Poland; (Z.Z.); (J.K.); (A.W.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marzena Janczaruk
- II Chair and Department of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery and Surgical Oncology of the Alimentary Tract, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Zbigniew Zając
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11, 20-080 Lublin, Poland; (Z.Z.); (J.K.); (A.W.)
| | - Aleksandra Sędzikowska
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Joanna Kulisz
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11, 20-080 Lublin, Poland; (Z.Z.); (J.K.); (A.W.)
| | - Aneta Woźniak
- Department of Biology and Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11, 20-080 Lublin, Poland; (Z.Z.); (J.K.); (A.W.)
| | - Anita Jasztal-Kniażuk
- Regional Chamber of Nurses and Midwives in Lublin, 20-072 Lublin, Poland; (A.J.-K.); (A.T.)
| | - Ewa Kulbaka
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Tytuła
- Regional Chamber of Nurses and Midwives in Lublin, 20-072 Lublin, Poland; (A.J.-K.); (A.T.)
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3
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Wyber R, Noonan K, Halkon C, Enkel S, Cannon J, Haynes E, Mitchell AG, Bessarab DC, Katzenellenbogen JM, Bond-Smith D, Seth R, D'Antoine H, Ralph AP, Bowen AC, Brown A, Carapetis JR. Ending rheumatic heart disease in Australia: the evidence for a new approach. Med J Aust 2020; 213 Suppl 10:S3-S31. [PMID: 33190287 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.50853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
■The RHD Endgame Strategy: the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease in Australia by 2031 (the Endgame Strategy) is the blueprint to eliminate rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Australia by 2031. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live with one of the highest per capita burdens of RHD in the world. ■The Endgame Strategy synthesises information compiled across the 5-year lifespan of the End Rheumatic Heart Disease Centre of Research Excellence (END RHD CRE). Data and results from priority research projects across several disciplines of research complemented literature reviews, systematic reviews and narrative reviews. Further, the experiences of those working in acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and RHD control and those living with RHD to provide the technical evidence for eliminating RHD in Australia were included. ■The lived experience of RHD is a critical factor in health outcomes. All future strategies to address ARF and RHD must prioritise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's knowledge, perspectives and experiences and develop co-designed approaches to RHD elimination. The environmental, economic, social and political context of RHD in Australia is inexorably linked to ending the disease. ■Statistical modelling undertaken in 2019 looked at the economic and health impacts of implementing an indicative strategy to eliminate RHD by 2031. Beginning in 2019, the strategy would include: reducing household crowding, improving hygiene infrastructure, strengthening primary health care and improving secondary prophylaxis. It was estimated that the strategy would prevent 663 deaths and save the health care system $188 million. ■The Endgame Strategy provides the evidence for a new approach to RHD elimination. It proposes an implementation framework of five priority action areas. These focus on strategies to prevent new cases of ARF and RHD early in the causal pathway from Streptococcus pyogenes exposure to ARF, and strategies that address the critical systems and structural changes needed to support a comprehensive RHD elimination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Wyber
- George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW.,Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rebecca Seth
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,University of Western Australia, Perth, WA
| | | | | | - Asha C Bowen
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, WA.,Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA
| | - Alex Brown
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA.,University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA
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4
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Mumcuoglu KY, Pollack RJ, Reed DL, Barker SC, Gordon S, Toloza AC, Picollo MI, Taylan-Ozkan A, Chosidow O, Habedank B, Ibarra J, Meinking TL, Vander Stichele RH. International recommendations for an effective control of head louse infestations. Int J Dermatol 2020; 60:272-280. [PMID: 32767380 PMCID: PMC7984059 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Head louse infestations continue to be a concern of public health in most countries, including the most developed ones. The present recommendations are intended to inform and stress the role and impact of the different authorities, institutions, industry, and the public in the control of head lice in order to reduce the prevalence of this parasite. We encourage health authorities to pursue more effective methods to correctly identify such infestations, and evaluate existing and new pediculicides, medical devices, louse repellents, and louse- and nit-removal remedies. Pediculicides and medical devices must have verifiable claims in the instructions for use and should be tested periodically to document current levels of resistance by lice to the active ingredients and to the formulated products. Where the prevalence of lice is claimed to be epidemic, children should be periodically evaluated objectively to document the actual level of prevalence. Continuing education for health providers and the general population promises to correct misinformation regarding the biology, prevention, and management of lice. Parents should regularly inspect their children for head lice and treat as necessary. Health authorities are encouraged to eliminate policies and practices that rely upon school exclusion as a means to reduce incidence and prevalence, e.g., the 'no-nit' policy which lacks scientific justification, and are counterproductive to the health and welfare of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosta Y Mumcuoglu
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Richard J Pollack
- Harvard University, Environmental Health and Safety, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David L Reed
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stephen C Barker
- Discipline of Parasitology, School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Shirley Gordon
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Ariel C Toloza
- Centro de Investigaciones de Plagas e Insecticidas, Buenos Aires (CIPEIN-CITEFA/CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria I Picollo
- Centro de Investigaciones de Plagas e Insecticidas, Buenos Aires (CIPEIN-CITEFA/CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aysegul Taylan-Ozkan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey.,Near-East University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Olivier Chosidow
- Department of Dermatology, AP-HP, Hôpital Henri Mondor, UPEC, Créteil, Paris, France
| | - Birgit Habedank
- Umweltbundesamt - German Environment Agency, Berlin, Germany
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5
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Ectoparasites. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020; 82:551-569. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.05.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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6
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Lydeamore MJ, Campbell PT, Regan DG, Tong SYC, Andrews RM, Steer AC, Romani L, Kaldor JM, McVernon J, McCaw JM. A biological model of scabies infection dynamics and treatment informs mass drug administration strategies to increase the likelihood of elimination. Math Biosci 2018; 309:163-173. [PMID: 30149021 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Infections with Sarcoptes scabiei, or scabies, remain common in many disadvantaged populations. Mass drug administration (MDA) has been used in such settings to achieve a rapid reduction in infection and transmission, with the goal of eliminating the public health burden of scabies. While prevalence has been observed to fall substantially following such an intervention, in some instances resurgence of infection to baseline levels has occurred over several years. To explore the biology underpinning this phenomenon, we have developed a theoretical model of scabies life-cycle and transmission dynamics in a homogeneously mixing population, and simulate the impact of mass drug treatment strategies acting on egg and mite life cycle stages (ovicidal) or mites alone (non-ovicidal). In order to investigate the dynamics of the system, we first define and calculate the optimal interval between treatment doses. We calculate the probability of eradication as a function of the number of optimally-timed successive treatment doses and the number of years over which a program is run. For the non-ovicidal intervention, we first show that at least two optimally-timed doses are required to achieve eradication. We then demonstrate that while more doses over a small number of years provides the highest chance of eradication, a similar outcome can be achieved with fewer doses delivered annually over a longer period of time. For the ovicidal intervention, we find that doses should be delivered as close together as possible. This work provides a platform for further research into optimal treatment strategies which may incorporate heterogeneity of transmission, and the interplay between MDA and enhancement of continuing scabies surveillance and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Lydeamore
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - P T Campbell
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - D G Regan
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, UNSW, Australia
| | - S Y C Tong
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia
| | - R M Andrews
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia; National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Australian National University, Australia
| | - A C Steer
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - L Romani
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, UNSW, Australia
| | - J M Kaldor
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, UNSW, Australia
| | - J McVernon
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - J M McCaw
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
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7
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Abstract
Chemical, physical, and mechanical methods are used to control human lice. Attempts have been made to eradicate head lice Pediculus humanus capitis by hot air, soaking in various fluids or asphyxiation using occlusive treatments. In this study, we assessed the maximum time that head lice can survive anoxia (oxygen deprivation) and their ability to survive prolonged water immersion. We also observed the ingress of fluids across louse tracheae and spiracle characteristics contrasting with those described in the literature. We showed that 100% of lice can withstand 8 h of anoxia and 12.2% survived 14 h of anoxia; survival was 48.9% in the untreated control group at 14 h. However, all lice had died following 16 h of anoxia. In contrast, the survival rate of water-immersed lice was significantly higher when compared with non-immersed lice after 6 h (100% vs. 76.6%, p = 0.0037), and 24 h (50.9% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.0003). Although water-immersed lice did not close their spiracles, water did not penetrate into the respiratory system. In contrast, immersion in colored dimeticone/cyclomethicone or colored ethanol resulted in penetration through the spiracles and spreading to the entire respiratory system within 30 min, leading to death in 100% of the lice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerdalidec Candy
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France - Unité des Virus Emergents (Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - IHU Méditerranée infection), Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Brun
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Patrick Nicolas
- Unit of Pharmacology, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Rémy Durand
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France
| | - Remi N Charrel
- Unité des Virus Emergents (Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - IHU Méditerranée infection), Marseille, France
| | - Arezki Izri
- Parasitology-Mycology Department, Avicenne Hospital, AP-HP, Bobigny, France - Unité des Virus Emergents (Aix-Marseille Univ - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207 - IHU Méditerranée infection), Marseille, France
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8
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Salavastru CM, Chosidow O, Janier M, Tiplica GS. European guideline for the management of pediculosis pubis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:1425-1428. [PMID: 28714128 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Pediculosis pubis is caused by Phthirus pubis. The disease can be sexually transmitted. Patients main complain is of itch in the pubic area. The parasite can be spotted with the naked eye and blue macules can be observed in the pubic area. First line therapy consists of permethrin or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide. Second line therapy contains phenothrin, malathion and oral ivermectin. Partner management needs a look-back period of time of 3 months. Pubic lice incidence is increased in populations groups living in crowded spaces with scarce sanitary conditions as in time of war or disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Salavastru
- Department of Paediatric Dermatology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - O Chosidow
- Department of Dermatology, Hôpital Henri Mondor AP-HP, Créteil, France
| | - M Janier
- STD Clinic, Dermatology Department, Hôpital Saint-Joseph, Paris, France
| | - G S Tiplica
- Department of Dermatology II, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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9
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10
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Scott GR, Chosidow O. European guideline for the management of pediculosis pubis, 2010. Int J STD AIDS 2011; 22:304-5. [DOI: 10.1258/ijsa.2011.011114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Transmission of the crab louse Phthirus pubis generally occurs by close body contact. Diagnosis is usually clinical and screening for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is indicated. While most evidence is extrapolated from studies of head lice treatments, topical pediculicides are recommended and treatment of sexual contacts is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- G R Scott
- Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - O Chosidow
- Department of Dermatology, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil. France
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11
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Sim S, Pai KS. Reemerging skin disease caused by arthropods II: louse. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2011. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2011.54.5.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Seobo Sim
- Department of Environmental and Tropical Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Chungju, Korea
| | - Ki-Soo Pai
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
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12
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Abstract
Pediculosis capitis, or head lice, is a common infestation among children worldwide. Multiple therapies exist for the treatment of this condition, including topical pediculicides and oral medications. When used in combination with environmental decontamination, these drugs can be very effective in eradicating head lice infestation without significant adverse events. The present study discusses the use of available over-the-counter and prescription treatments, including pyrethroids and permethrin, lindane, malathion, ivermectin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, in the treatment of head lice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Diamantis
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Diamantis
- University of North Carolina, Department of Dermatology, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk M Elston
- Department of Dermatology, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, Pennsylvania 17821, USA.
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16
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Burkhart CN, Burkhart CG. Fomite transmission in head lice. J Am Acad Dermatol 2007; 56:1044-7. [PMID: 17187895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2006.10.979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2006] [Revised: 10/24/2006] [Accepted: 10/24/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Control of various infestations requires an accurate understanding of transmission. After thousands of years of lice infestation, scientific documentation of indirect contact transmission has been substantiated. Lice can be transferred in the egg, instar, and adult stages. Lice have now been shown in the laboratory to be readily dislodged by air movements such as blow-drying one's hair, combing, and toweling. Moreover, passive transfer to adjoining fabric is also frequently observed. Louse transmission by fomites occurs more frequently than has been commonly believed. Close proximity suffices to increase the likeliness of a new infestation. Thus louse control measures should take account of fomite transmission and include screening of all individuals within an infested person's immediate circle of contact, laundering of everything within the infested individuals' bed or quarantining of such material for 10 days, thorough vacuuming of floors, carpets, upholstery, with a standard vacuum cleaner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig N Burkhart
- Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Lebwohl M, Clark L, Levitt J. Therapy for head lice based on life cycle, resistance, and safety considerations. Pediatrics 2007; 119:965-74. [PMID: 17473098 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-3087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The timing of head lice maturation most favorable to their survival in the presence of anti-lice agents is the maximum time as an ovum (12 days) and the shortest possible time of maturing from newly hatched nymph to egg-laying adult (8.5 days). Pediculicides that are not reliably ovicidal (pyrethroids and lindane) require 2 to 3 treatment cycles to eradicate lice. Ovicidal therapies (malathion) require 1 to 2 treatments. Treatment with an agent to which there is genetic resistance is unproductive. In the United States, lice have become increasingly resistant to pyrethroids and lindane but not to malathion. Treatment with malathion has favorable efficacy and safety profiles and enables the immediate, safe return to school. Nit combing can be performed adjunctively. No-nit policies should be rendered obsolete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lebwohl
- Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
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