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 requires immediate treatment to prevent morbidity and mortality, and the most effective treatment involves thorough washing and drying of all clothing, bedding, and towels at high temperatures or dry cleaning them to kill the lice and eggs, as well as application of over-the-counter permethrin 1% lotion or cream rinse to the entire body, as recommended by the most recent study 1.
Diagnosis and Symptoms
The condition is diagnosed by finding lice or eggs in the seams of clothing or occasionally on the body, particularly in areas where clothing is in close contact with skin. Symptoms include:
- Intense itching
- Rash
- Red bumps on the skin, particularly around the neck, shoulders, armpits, waist, and groin
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment involves:
- Thorough washing and drying of all clothing, bedding, and towels at high temperatures (at least 130°F/54°C) or dry cleaning them to kill the lice and eggs
- Application of over-the-counter permethrin 1% lotion or cream rinse to the entire body, typically leaving it on for 10 minutes before rinsing off, as recommended by 2 and 1
- In severe cases, prescription medications like malathion 0.5% lotion or ivermectin tablets may be necessary, as suggested by 3 and 4 Environmental hygiene is crucial as body lice infestations are typically associated with crowded living conditions and infrequent clothing changes.
Importance of Recent Evidence
The most recent study 1 highlights the importance of treating body lice infestations promptly and effectively to prevent increased morbidity and potential transmission of infectious diseases, making it a critical consideration in real-life clinical practice.