Prevalence and diversity of bacterial pathogens in head lice from primary school children: A systematic review 2015–2025 | ||
| Microbes and Infectious Diseases | ||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 16 October 2025 | ||
| Document Type: Systematic review or meta-analysis | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/mid.2025.422308.3196 | ||
| Authors | ||
| laith A. Ismael* 1; Amani M. Jasim2; Ashwak Jasim Kzar2 | ||
| 1Mosul Medical Technical Institute, Northern Technical University, Iraq | ||
| 2Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, College of Health and Medical Techniques, Middle Technical University, Baghdad, Iraq. | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Background: Head lice infestation is a common parasitic condition affecting primary school children worldwide, often leading to discomfort and social stigma and affecting their well-being and academic performance. Concurrently, bacterial infections, particularly skin infections, can occur due to scratching and compromised skin integrity. The interaction between lice infestation and bacterial colonization may exacerbate health risks. Understanding this relationship is critical for effective prevention and treatment strategies in primary schoolchildren. The current study was performed to determine the prevalence and diversity of bacterial pathogens in head lice among primary school children. Methods: Articles were searched in major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Search terms and keywords included a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords related to Pediculus capitis infestation and primary school children. This study included only articles written in English and published from January 1, 2015, to April 1, 2025. Furthermore, the current study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO (International Systematic Review Registry) with registration number CRD420251040464. Results: Twelve relevant publications were located from an original 143 records from the database searches and included in this systematic review. The studies collectively show that pediculus capitis frequently harbor Acinetobacter spp., particularly Acinetobacter baumannii, Staphylococcus spp. and Bartonella spp. across diverse clades, with Clades A and D being most common. Pathogens like Pseudomonas spp., Serratia marcescens, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Yersinia pestis, were also found, but at lower prevalence rates. Conclusion: Head lice can harbor various pathogenic bacteria, suggesting their potential role as vectors. The predominance of Acinetobacter spp., especially A. baumannii, Staphylococcus spp. and Bartonella spp., raises concerns about lice as reservoirs of opportunistic infections. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Head lice; Pediculus humanus capitis; Pediculosis capitis; Primary School Children; Bacterial Pathogens | ||
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