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Head Lice
Alternate Names : Lice - Head, Nits, Pediculosis Capitis - Head Lice
Definition
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp. They can be spread by close contact with other people.
Pictures & Images
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
There are three common types of lice: head lice, body lice, and pubic lice (also called crabs). Head lice infect the scalp hair and are easiest to see at the nape of the neck and over the ears. Tiny eggs can be seen on the hair, appearing much like flakes of dandruff, but stuck firmly to the hair shaft instead of flaking off of the scalp.
Lice can also live on clothing, carpets, or bedding.
Head lice are spread very easily and cause intense itching, but they do not lead to a serious medical problem. Lice are more common in close, overcrowded living conditions. Lice also spread readily among school children.
Having lice is NOT an indicator of poor hygiene or low social status.
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• Definition
• Head Lice Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Head Lice Symptoms & Signs
• Head Lice Prevention
• Head Lice Diagnosis & Tests
• Head Lice Treatment
• Head Lice Prognosis
• Head Lice Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Review Date : 12/2/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma., and Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Philip L. Graham III, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of New York, Columiba Universit, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (1/22/2002).
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