A. PEDUCULOSIS (lice), is found in all age groups and across all demographics (yes, from the very rich to the very poor). This condition is more commonly found in children and in association with poor hygiene. It is highly transmittable and is usually passed on by shared clothing, bedding, combs, hats, etc. It is entirely benign.
The classic symptom of head lice (pediculosis capitus) is an itchy scalp. The itching is actually caused by the injection of saliva, feces and/or digestive juices of the adult lice into the skin of its host. The eggs, otherwise known as nits, are firmly attached to the shaft of the hair and make diagnosis fairly easy.
Lice can be found on any hairy part of the body. Pediculosis corpus (body lice) typically lives and lays eggs in clothing, especially the seams. Pediculosis pubis (pubic lice) is caused by the organism Pthirus Pubis (crab louse) and is often considered a sexually transmitted disease.
As for TREATMENT:
Treatment of lice should ideally include treatment of the entire family
and all sexual contacts. There are two main principles.
The real answer to your question is that you need to have your child seen by the family doc to make a diagnosis, and then counsel you about proper treatment. But try not to fret. Most kids get it, many families get it, and it's VERY treatable. If it's lice, let your child's school (and friends) know!!
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