pediculosis

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pediculosis (pi-dik-yoo-loh-sis) n. an infestation with lice which causes intense itching. p. capitis infestation with head lice, which is quite common in schoolchildren and does not indicate poor hygiene; it may be treated with pediculicide lotions or by use of a nit comb. p. corporis infestation with body lice, which affects vagrants, tramps, etc. Pubic (or crab) lice (Phthirus pubis) are commonly sexually transmitted and respond to the same treatment as head lice.

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