Pediculosis capitis symptoms include what?

• A. Fever and coughing.
• B. Intense, persistent scalp itching, sensations of movement, visible white/grey nits near the scalp, and red itchy lesions.
• C. Hair loss in patches only.
• D. Dry scalp with flaking skin.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is recognizing how head lice (pediculosis capitis) manifest on the scalp. When someone has head lice, the most telltale signs are itching from the reaction to lice saliva, the sensation that something is moving on the scalp, and visible evidence like eggs (nits) attached to hair near the scalp, along with red, irritated patches from scratching.

That’s why the option describing intense, persistent itching, sensations of movement, visible white/grey nits near the scalp, and red itchy lesions fits best. These elements together are classic indicators of a head lice infestation. Fever and coughing aren’t symptoms of lice, hair loss in patches isn’t typical for lice, and a dry, flaky scalp points to dandruff or dermatitis rather than lice.