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Head Lice Infestation: An Unusual Cause of Iron Deficiency Anemia in a 13-Year-Old Female
Chukwunonye O Ogbuji1, Alexis Schuck2, Matthew DeVries2
1Pediatric Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, USA.
Insights
Severe head lice infestation (Pediculosis humanus capitis) can cause iron deficiency anemia in children. This case highlights a rare cause of anemia, emphasizing thorough investigation and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Parasitology
- Hematology
Background:
- Pediculosis, a common parasitic infestation by Pediculus humanus, typically causes pruritus.
- While generally benign, chronic or severe infestations can lead to significant blood loss.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old girl presented with symptoms of anemia, including shortness of breath, palpitations, and fatigue.
- Physical examination revealed an incidental finding of Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice) infestation.
Findings:
- Laboratory investigations ruled out other causes of anemia.
- The patient was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) secondary to severe chronic pediculosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores pediculosis as a rare but significant cause of IDA in children.
- Highlights the importance of considering parasitic infestations in the differential diagnosis of pediatric anemia.
- Emphasizes the need for thorough investigation, prompt treatment, and close follow-up for severe pediculosis.
Abstract:
Pediculosis is a parasitic infestation of the human head and body by Pediculus humanus. This is a benign condition commonly seen in children and capable of causing severe pruritus. The parasite thrives on human blood and in some cases, the volume of blood loss over time could be large enough to precipitate anemic symptoms in the patient. We describe the case of a 13-year-old girl who presented with shortness of breath on exertion, palpitations, and easy fatigability. An incidental finding of Pediculus humanus capitis infestation was made during physical examination. Complete laboratory investigations did not reveal other possible causes of anemia, leading to a diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) secondary to severe chronic pediculosis. This case highlights a rare and unusual cause of IDA in children caused by pediculosis, and the need for a thorough investigation, close follow-up, and treatment.
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