Which term describes infestation of the scalp by head lice?

Which term describes infestation of the scalp by head lice?

• A. Tinea capitis
• B. Pediculosis capitis
• C. Seborrhea
• D. Dandruff

Answer: (B)

Infestation of the scalp by head lice is called pediculosis capitis. Lice live on the scalp, feed on blood, and lay eggs (nits) on hair shafts close to the scalp, which is how this condition is identified and distinguished from other scalp issues. In a barbering context, recognizing pediculosis capitis is important for safety and sanitation because it involves live parasites. For comparison, tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes scaly patches and often hair loss; seborrhea is a greasy, irritated scalp with oily scales; dandruff is flaky skin on the scalp that may be dry or oily but does not involve live lice.

Infestation of the scalp by head lice is called pediculosis capitis. Lice live on the scalp, feed on blood, and lay eggs (nits) on hair shafts close to the scalp, which is how this condition is identified and distinguished from other scalp issues. In a barbering context, recognizing pediculosis capitis is important for safety and sanitation because it involves live parasites.

For comparison, tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes scaly patches and often hair loss; seborrhea is a greasy, irritated scalp with oily scales; dandruff is flaky skin on the scalp that may be dry or oily but does not involve live lice.