What type of organism is Pediculus capitis?

Pediculosis is infestation with the human head-and-body louse, Pediculus humanus. There are two subspecies, the head louse (P. h. capitis) and the body louse (P.

What is the meaning of pediculosis capitis?

INTRODUCTION. Pediculosis capitis is a common condition caused by infestation of the hair and scalp by Pediculus humanus capitis (the head louse), one of three distinct varieties of lice specifically parasitic for humans (figure 1) [1].

What disease is caused by Pediculus humanus?

Pediculus humanus humanus serves as a vector for diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever [3-5]. Bartonella quintana transmission via louse infestation has also been linked to endocarditis [2]. (See “Endocarditis caused by Bartonella”.)

What causes pediculosis?

Head lice (pediculosis capitis) is a common, highly contagious infection that often occurs in nurseries, day care centers, and schools. It is caused by infestation with the human head louse, Pediculus humanus capitis, and it is usually very itchy.

Is pediculosis a virus or bacteria?

Abstract. Background: Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice) belongs to the order Anoplura, which are blood-feeding ectoparasites that live on human hair. Within these insects reside symbiotic bacteria that enable the insect to flourish on dietary sources of limited nutritional value.

Can head lice live on clothes?

Although uncommon, head lice can be spread by sharing clothing or belongings. This happens when lice crawl, or nits attached to shed hair hatch, and get on the shared clothing or belongings.

How long do head lice live off the body?

Females are usually larger than males and can lay up to 8 nits per day. Adult lice can live up to 30 days on a person’s head. To live, adult lice need to feed on blood several times daily. Without blood meals, the louse will die within 1 to 2 days off the host.

How does pediculosis affect the body?

How do body lice affect my body? Body lice infestations (pediculosis) usually cause itchy skin and a skin rash at the site of louse bites. Some people don’t have any symptoms at all. Most people recover from body lice infestations without using medication.

What is vagabond disease?

Body louse infestation is also known as vagabond disease, and individuals who have an infestation for many years can develop a condition termed vagabond skin. The skin becomes thickened and darkened after years of bites and subsequent rubbing and excoriations.

How is pediculosis transmitted?

How is pediculosis spread? For both head lice and body lice, transmission can occur during direct contact with an infested individual. Sharing of clothing and combs or brushes may also result in transmission of these insects. While other means are possible, crab lice are most often transmitted through sexual contact.

How does pediculosis spread?