Evolution of the Effectiveness of Peremetherin and Trimethoprim/ Slfomethoxazole on Pediculosis Capitit and some Bacteria Isolated from its Complication

Abstract

Abstract: Background:Head lice infestation caused by Pediculus humanus var. Capitis, is the most prevalent human ectoparasitic disease worldwide, head lice are haematophagous, frequent among children 3-11 years. Traditional pharmacological therapies, have focused on 1 or 2 courses of various ovicidal and pediculicidal topical therapies. Objectives: To compare the effectiveness of permetherin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole on 1 or 2 courses of various ovicidal and pediculicidal topical therapies. Methods; Seventy five females patients with pediculosis capitis , their ages ranged from 3 to 60 years. In 40 patients the pediculosis was complicated by secondary bacterial infection. The patients were divided in to three groups, Group 1 :-The patients were treated by 5% permetherin solution . Group 2 :-Was treated by trimethoprim /sulfamethoxazole tablet or solution according to the age .Group 3:- Was treated by combination of 5% permetherin solution and oral trimethoprim /sulfamethoxazole . Swabs were taken from patients with bacterial infection.Results:The study revealed that 23(92%) patients of the first group, was cleared, 20(80%)patients from the second group, also cleared and all the patients in the third group 25(100%). Of those who were complicated by secondary bacterial infection 40(60%), 30(75%) the cultures show bacterial growth. The cultures which were tested by 5% permetherin shows no inhibition zone but those cultures which were tested by trimethoprim /sulphamethoxazol shows significant inhibition zone.Conclusion:It was concluded that permetherin was ineffective as antibacterial agent but it was highly effectivas pediculocidal agent and it was more effective when combined with oral trimethoprim/ sulfamethoxazole.