Head Lice and Body Lice: Symptoms & Signs (Pediculosis)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Head Lice and Body Lice: Symptoms & Signs
Category : Health Centers > Skin Conditions

Head Lice and Body Lice

Alternate Names : Pediculosis

Head Lice and Body Lice | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Head lice may not be visible. Body lice are rarely found and then only in the seams of clothing. Head lice leave nits, or clear egg cases, attached to the hair shafts. Body lice leave nits that are attached to the seams of clothing.

Following are signs and symptoms of lice:

itchy scalp caused by head lice, and itchy body sites caused by body lice

inflammation from the rubbing and scratching

bacterial infections, which can occur once the skin or scalp is scratched

nits that may look like dandruff or sand but can't be shaken off

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Head Lice and Body Lice: Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors		Head Lice and Body Lice: Diagnosis & Tests

Author: Lynn West, MD
Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 07/27/01

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