líce

Lice are small, wingless parasitic insects that live on the skin of mammals and birds. They belong to the order Phthiraptera. There are three main types of lice that infest humans: head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus humanus), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis), also known as crabs.

Head lice are most commonly found on the scalp, in eyebrows, and eyelashes. They are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact. Body lice live in clothing and bedding and move onto the skin to feed. They are often associated with poor hygiene and crowded living conditions. Pubic lice infest the genital area and are typically spread through sexual contact.

Lice feed on blood. Their bites can cause itching, which can lead to scratching and secondary skin infections. Diagnosis is usually made by visual inspection for lice or their eggs, called nits, which are typically attached to hair shafts. Treatment typically involves over-the-counter or prescription medicated shampoos, lotions, or rinses. It is also important to wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to kill any lice or nits. While lice are a nuisance and can cause discomfort, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans.