Body lice are tiny parasites (Pediculus humanus corporis) that spread through close contact with other people.

There are three types of lice:

• Body lice
• Head lice
• Pubic lice

This article focuses on body lice.

Causes

Lice feed on human blood and live in the seams and folds of clothing. They lay their eggs and deposit waste matter on the skin and clothing.

You can catch body lice if you come in direct contact with someone who has lice, or with infected clothing, towels, or bedding.

Body lice are bigger than other types of lice.

You are more likely to get body lice if you have poor hygiene or live in close (overcrowded) conditions. Infestation is unlikely to last on anyone who bathes regularly, and who has at least weekly access to freshly laundered clothing and bedding.

If the lice fall off of a person, they die within about 5 - 7 days at room temperature.

Symptoms

• Intense itching
• Red bumps on the skin
• Areas around the waist or groin may become thickened or discolored when lice have been present for a long time

Exams and Tests

Your doctor can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin and clothing.

• Full-grown lice are the size of a sesame seed, have six legs, and are tan to greyish-white.
• Nits are lice eggs. They will most often be seen in the clothing of someone with lice, most commonly around the waist and in the armpits.

Persons with body lice should also be checked for head and pubic lice.

Treatment

Body lice live primarily in clothing. Destroy or carefully wash infected clothing in hot water (at least 130 degrees F), then machine dry using a hot cycle.

In addition, your doctor may recommend a prescription cream or wash. However, hygiene and washng clothes, bedding, and towels are most important and are usually enough.

Outlook (Prognosis)

With effective treatment, the lice can be completely eliminated.

Possible Complications

Another (secondary) skin infection may occur from scratching. In rare cases, body lice may carry uncommon diseases, such as relapsing or trench fever. Because body lice is contagious, other family members may want to be treated.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have lice in your clothing or persistent itchiness.

Prevention

Good personal hygiene and effective treatment of infected persons will prevent lice from spreading to others.

Alternative Names

Lice - body