Heukelbach, Jörg, and Feldmeier, Hermann (2010) Clinical aspects. In: Heukelbach, Jörg, (ed.) Management and Control of Head Lice Infestations. Uni-Med Verlag AG, Bremen, Germany, pp. 43-45.

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Abstract

[Extract] Many patients remain asymptomatic. Pruritus, all immune-mediated reaction to components orliee saliva, is the most common symptom of head lice infestations. The degree of itching seems to increase with the duration of infestation and the number of lice present on the scalp, but may depend also on the Socio-cultural setting. In two endemic communities in Brazil, itching was the predominant symptom, but intensity was generally perceived as low [1]. [n Venezuela, 18% of infested schoolchildren reported itching [2]. In France, itching was reported in 14% of scholchildren with head lice [3]. whereas in Israel, about 30% of infested children complained about itching-but 23% did not show any symptoms or signs [4]. Similar to other skin diseases, the intensity of itching is significantly higher during the first three hours of sleep. As a consequence children with pediculosis capitis often complain about sleep disturbances [5]. We assume that the threshold of the itch sensation is downregulated at night, as observed in other skin diseases [6]. Persistent disturbance of sleep may lead to concentration problems, tiredness and poor performance in school.

Item ID:	16729
Item Type:	Book Chapter (Teaching Material)
ISBN:	978-3-8374-1203-1
Keywords:	head lice, infestations, management, control
Related URLs:	Publisher
Date Deposited:	11 May 2011 22:25
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111799 Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920499 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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