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Body Lice Learning Center

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Welcome

Body lice are tiny parasites (Pediculus humanus corporis) that spread through close contact with other people. There are three types of lice: Body lice; Head lice; Pubic lice. This article focuses on body lice.

Basic Info

Symptoms
Intense itching; Red bumps on the skin.
Causes
Lice feed on human blood and live in the seams and folds of clothing. They lay their eggs and deposit waste matter on...
Tests
Your doctor can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin and clothing. Persons with body lice should a...
Treatments
Because body lice live primarily in clothing, destruction or careful washing of infected garments is most important. ...
Alternative Therapies
Olive oil or petroleum ointment may be used to smother head lice. After applying to the hair and scalp, the child's h...
Risk Factors
  • Poor Hygiene
  • close (overcrowded) living conditions
Complications
Another (secondary) skin infection may occur from scratching. In rare cases, body lice may carry uncommon diseases su...
Prevention
Good personal hygiene and effective treatment of infected persons will prevent lice from spreading to others.
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if you have lice in your clothing or persistent itchiness.

Basic Info

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