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

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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Signs and Symptoms
Moving lice or nonmoving nits may be seen on the scalp and hair. Each louse is approximately 1–3 mm long and is whitish-gray in color. Lice crawl; they do not jump or fly. Nits are smaller, about 0.5–1 mm, white, and are firmly attached to the hair very close to the scalp.

Small red bumps or sores may be seen on the scalp, neck, and shoulders. Occasionally, the lymph nodes behind the ears or in the neck may be swollen and tender. Lice may sometimes be seen on the eyelashes, causing the eyes to become red and irritated.

Because head lice infestations are quite itchy, scratching is common and may lead to resultant infection or scabbing. In addition to an itching or tickling sensation, children may also be irritable or have difficulty sleeping.
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Last Modified: 17 Apr 2009
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