Tincture of cocculus indicus, pure or diluted, may also be applied with good results.
When the parts are markedly eczematous, an ointment of ammoniated mercury or β-naphthol, thirty to sixty grains to the ounce may be used.
Daily shampooing with soap and water, and the twice daily application of a five per cent. carbolic acid lotion, together with the use of a fine-toothed comb, is a safe and efficient method for dispensary practice; as it is, indeed, for any class of patients.
How are the ova or their shells to be removed from the hair?
By the frequent use of acid or alkaline lotions, such as dilute acetic acid and vinegar, or solutions of sodium carbonate and borax.
Pediculosis Corporis.
Describe the symptoms of pediculosis corporis.
Pediculosis corporis is dependent upon the presence of the pediculus corporis (pediculus vestimenti), a larger variety than that infesting the scalp. It is characterized by more or less general itching, together with various inflammatory lesions and excoriations. As the parasites are to be found chiefly in the folds and seams of the clothing, visiting the skin for the purpose of feeding, the various symptoms—the minute hemorrhagic puncta showing the points at which they have been sucking, and the consequent papules, pustules and excoriations—are, therefore, to be found most abundantly on those parts with which the clothing comes closely in contact, as, for instance, around the neck, across the shoulders, around the waist, and down the outside of the thighs. It is uncommon in children.
Fig. 81.
