Pediculosis corporis

Pediculosis corporis is an ectoparasitic cutaneous infestation caused by body lice (*Pediculus humanus corporis*), which reside and lay eggs in the seams of clothing and bedding rather than on the host's skin Pathophysiologically, the lice migrate to the skin to take blood meals, triggering an allergic reaction to salivary proteins that manifests clinically as intense pruritus, erythematous macules, wheals, and linear excoriations Chronic infestation may result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmenta...

Pediculosis corporis is an ectoparasitic cutaneous infestation caused by body lice (*Pediculus humanus corporis*), which reside and lay eggs in the seams of clothing and bedding rather than on the host's skin The condition primarily impacts the integumentary system and disproportionately affects vulnerable populations living in overcrowded conditions or with limited access to regular laundering and hygiene facilities, such as individuals experiencing homelessness or displacement Pathophysiologic...

The condition primarily impacts the integumentary system and disproportionately affects vulnerable populations living in overcrowded conditions or with limited access to regular laundering and hygiene facilities, such as individuals experiencing homelessness or displacement

Pathophysiologically, the lice migrate to the skin to take blood meals, triggering an allergic reaction to salivary proteins that manifests clinically as intense pruritus, erythematous macules, wheals, and linear excoriations Chronic infestation may result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, secondary bacterial infections, and potential exposure to louse-borne systemic pathogens such as *Rickettsia prowazekii* and *Bartonella quintana*