Quantcast Numerous tiny, white lice eggs (nits) glued to the hair shaft are seen in this person with head lice. Lice (pediculosis capitis) can cause intense itching, which can result in scratching and areas of bloody skin crusts, as seen in this image. This image displays lice eggs, which are visible and persist even after lice are eliminated, unless removed. Very rarely, the head louse may also lay eggs (nits) on the eyelashes. (See the tiny white spots on the upper eyelashes.) Children with head lice often have multiple scratched areas on the back of the neck and behind the ears. This is a microscopic picture of the head louse.
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Head Lice (Pediculosis Capitis):
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

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Picture of Head Lice (Pediculosis Capitis): Numerous tiny, white lice eggs (nits) glued to the hair shaft are seen in this person with head lice. Divider line
Numerous tiny, white lice eggs (nits) glued to the hair shaft are seen in this person with head lice.
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Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
In order to make a diagnosis of head lice, the doctor must see a louse or a nit on the scalp. Occasionally, a Wood's lamp is used to look for lice and nits. In this procedure, the doctor shines a black light at the scalp, and the insects and eggs appear as yellow-green fluorescent spots under this light.

Once the diagnosis of head lice has been confirmed, the doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments in addition to the self-care measures outlined above:
  • Permethrin lotion or shampoo
  • Malathion lotion
  • Lindane lotion, cream, or shampoo (not used as much anymore due to potential toxicity)
  • Ivermectin pills
Last Modified: 4 Mar 2008

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