Infestation with lice is known scientifically as which of the following?

• A. Warts
• B. Rosacea
• C. Pediculosis
• D. Scabies

Answer: (C)

Infestation with lice is called pediculosis. Lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp or body and feed on blood, and the term pediculosis covers infestations by all lice species (head, body, and pubic). Signs often include intense itching and the presence of nits or lice on hair shafts. It’s different from scabies, which is caused by a mite, not a louse; warts are caused by human papillomavirus, and rosacea is a chronic skin condition, not an infestation. Pediculosis is the correct term because it specifically denotes lice infestation.