The methodology and operation of a pilot randomized control trial of the effectiveness of the Bug Busting method against a single application insecticide product for head louse treatment.
A Department of Health leaflet suggests two treatment methods for head lice: mechanical removal by wet combing; and insecticide lotion/rinses. However, there are no reports in the literature comparing the effectiveness of these two treatment methods and well controlled clinical trials of insecticide treatments are sparse. A pilot randomized control trial of the effectiveness of a specific method of wet combing, 'Bug Busting', against a single application of a proprietary insecticide product is reported. The difficulties of designing a trial are discussed and modifications that would allow a definitive trial to take place are suggested. The pilot study included enzyme analysis of lice for insecticide resistance status assessment.
Bingham
P
P
Department of Public Health Medicine, Isle of Wight Health Authority, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 3ED, UK.
Kirk
S
S
Hill
N
N
Figueroa
J
J
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D006920:Hygiene; D007300:Insect Control; D007306:Insecticides; D010373:Lice Infestations / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D010374:Pediculus; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012536:Scalp Dermatoses / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006113:United Kingdom
D007306:Insecticides