title: Recommendation to standardize pediculicidal and ovicidal testing for head lice (Anoplura: Pediculidae).
abstract: Pediculosis capitis is a prevalent and highly communicable condition infesting millions of elementary school students annually. Topical insecticides are the present standard treatment for this condition. Because resistance of head lice to insecticides is a growing concern, assessment of efficacy of pediculicidal and ovicidal activity of the various agents is needed for public health interests. Given the number of anecdotal and market-driven reported studies, assessment of topical lice therapies requires standardized testing. Evaluations based on adaptations of World Health Organization guidelines are not ideal, whereas a protocol reflecting clinical exposure to insecticides is preferable.
authors: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Ohio at Toledo, USA.
authors: C N
authors: CN
authors: Burkhart
authors: C G
authors: CG
authors: Burkhart
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007300:Insect Control / Q000592:standards*; D007306:Insecticides; D010373:Lice Infestations / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010063:Ovum; D010374:Pediculus
chemical_list: D007306:Insecticides