B85: Pediculosis and phthiriasis
B85.0: Pediculosis due to Pediculus humanus capitis
Lice are parasites that are nourished by human blood. Parasites are small creatures that, at least for periods of time, live off other creatures. In humans they can cause illnesses. You can become infected through close physical contact with lice, for example. You can be infected by head lice via objects of shared use, such as brushes, combs or hats.
Head lice are mainly found at the back of the head, on the neck, behind the ears and at the temples. The white eggs attach themselves to hairs, near the hairline. The eggs are also known as nits. The head lice can cause small red papules in the scalp.
Lice can cause severe itching, particularly at night. The skin can become inflamed through scratching. Then the skin can get infected by other pathogens such as bacteria or fungi.
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The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.