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Lice
Synonym(s)
Anoplura; poux (fz); sucking lice (e)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Human ectoparasites belonging to the hexapods. The clothes louse played a major role during the 19th and 20th centuries as a carrier of classical typhus and relapsing fever. Lice are characterized by a high host specificity. In total, more than 400 species are known. Of importance for humans are:The pubic louse can be clearly distinguished from the other two species by its much smaller (1.3-1.6 mm) trapezoidal body. Head and clothes louse have an elongated body with a size of 2.25-3.00 mm (head louse) and 2.75-3.75 mm (clothes louse).
Clinical pictureThis section has been translated automatically.
Aphid infestation(pediculosis) causes pronounced local reactions accompanied by itching due to Type IV reactions to saliva components. Superinfections due to scratching effects.
Complication(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Lice can transmit Salmonella typhi, Rickettsia prowazeki (fecal fever), Bartonelle quintana (five-day fever), Borrelia recurrentis (relapsing lice fever - several cases have recently been reported in African refugees).