What is the recommended treatment for pediculosis capitis (lice)?

The recommended treatment for pediculosis capitis, commonly known as head lice, involves the use of a 1% permethrin shampoo combined with the mechanical removal of nits (lice eggs). Permethrin is a topical insecticide specifically designed to kill lice and is effective against both adult lice and their eggs. The use of nit removal is critical, as nits can continue to attach to hair shafts and hatch even after treatment if not properly removed.

Mechanical removal can be done using a fine-toothed comb, and it is crucial for ensuring that any remaining eggs are cleared out to prevent reinfestation. This combined approach effectively addresses both the immediate lice and the potential for further spread.

Using a topical antifungal cream, oral antibiotics, or warm compresses is not appropriate for treating lice. Antifungal creams target fungal infections, while antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, and warm compresses do not address the lice themselves. Therefore, the strategy of using 1% permethrin shampoo along with nit removal is the most effective and recommended treatment for pediculosis capitis.