Title |
Pediculosis capitis: new insights into epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment
|
---|---|
Published in |
European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, March 2012
|
DOI | 10.1007/s10096-012-1575-0 |
Pubmed ID | |
Authors |
H. Feldmeier |
Abstract |
Pediculosis capitis is a ubiquitous parasitic skin disease caused by Pediculus humanus capitis. Head lice are highly specialised parasites which can propagate only on human scalp and hair. Transmission occurs by direct head-to-head contact. Head lice are vectors of important bacterial pathogens. Pediculosis capitis usually occurs in small epidemics in play groups, kindergartens and schools. Population-based studies in European countries show highly diverging prevalences, ranging from 1% to 20%. The diagnosis of head lice infestation is made through the visual inspection of hair and scalp or dry/wet combing. The optimal method for the diagnosis of active head lice infestation is dry/wet combing. Topical application of a pediculicide is the most common treatment. Compounds with a neurotoxic mode of action are widely used but are becoming less effective due to resistant parasite populations. Besides, their use is restricted by safety concerns. Dimeticones, silicone oils with a low surface tension and the propensity to perfectly coat surfaces, have a purely physical mode of action. This group of compounds is highly effective and safe, and there is no risk that head lice become resistant. The control of epidemics requires active contact tracing and synchronised treatment with an effective and safe pediculicide. |
Mendeley readers
Geographical breakdown
Country | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Spain | 1 | <1% |
Unknown | 117 | 99% |
Demographic breakdown
Readers by professional status | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Student > Bachelor | 20 | 17% |
Student > Master | 14 | 12% |
Researcher | 11 | 9% |
Other | 8 | 7% |
Student > Ph. D. Student | 8 | 7% |
Other | 20 | 17% |
Unknown | 37 | 31% |
Readers by discipline | Count | As % |
---|---|---|
Medicine and Dentistry | 39 | 33% |
Agricultural and Biological Sciences | 15 | 13% |
Nursing and Health Professions | 5 | 4% |
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | 3 | 3% |
Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | 3 | 3% |
Other | 13 | 11% |
Unknown | 40 | 34% |