From the Research
Pediculosis corporis, also known as body lice infestation, is a parasitic skin condition caused by the human body louse (Pediculus humanus corporis) that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality due to the transmission of diseases such as typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever, and therefore, prompt treatment is essential to prevent these complications. The treatment of pediculosis corporis involves washing all clothing and bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) and drying on high heat, along with applying pediculicide medications such as permethrin 5% cream or lotion to the entire body, left on for 8-12 hours before washing off, as recommended by the most recent study 1. Some key points to consider in the treatment of pediculosis corporis include:
- The environment must be thoroughly cleaned, as body lice live primarily in clothing and bedding rather than on the skin itself 2.
- Body lice infestations are typically associated with poor hygiene, overcrowded living conditions, and inability to change or wash clothes regularly 3.
- Symptoms of pediculosis corporis include intense itching, rash, and small red bumps or sores from bites, particularly around the neck, shoulders, armpits, waist, and groin, and scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections requiring antibiotic treatment 1.
- Lindane 1% lotion or ivermectin may be used for resistant cases, but permethrin is generally the treatment of choice due to its residual effect and minimal toxicity 4. It is essential to note that body lice can transmit diseases such as typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever, which can be life-threatening, and therefore, prompt treatment is crucial to prevent these complications 1.