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Pediculosis Is a Risk Factor for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Hussain A Al Ghadeer1, Fadi Busaleh1, Hassan M Albahrani1

  • 1Pediatrics, Maternity and Children Hospital, Al-Ahsa, SAU.

Cureus
|April 4, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Pediculosis capitis, a common head louse infestation, can cause severe anemia in children. This case series highlights the link between heavy lice infestation and microcytic hypochromic anemia, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Entomology
  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Pediculosis capitis, a common head louse infestation, primarily affects children.
  • While generally manageable with hygiene, chronic infestations can lead to complications.
  • Hematological complications like anemia are infrequently reported but significant.

Observation:

  • A case series of five pediatric patients presented with severe anemia.
  • All patients exhibited heavy head louse infestation (Pediculosis capitis).
  • Laboratory findings included microcytic hypochromic anemia and low serum iron.

Findings:

  • Severe anemia was directly associated with heavy Pediculosis capitis.
  • Other potential causes of anemia were systematically excluded.
  • Patients required blood transfusions due to the severity of the anemia.

Implications:

  • This study underscores the potential for Pediculosis capitis to cause significant hematological issues.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of head lice are crucial to prevent complications like anemia.
  • Further research into the mechanisms of anemia in severe lice infestations is warranted.

Keywords:
alahsahead liceiron deficiency anaemiapediculosis capitisprofound anaemia.saudi arabia

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