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We reviewed the English-language literature of 1982-1992 for papers concerning scabies, pediculosis, and their treatments; this information was supplemented with opinions of workers in the field of ectoparasitic disease. Six treatment trials for scabies, one study of the treatment of pediculosis pubis, and additional studies on the treatment of pediculosis capitis were included. Both lindane 1% and permethrin 5% are effective treatments for scabies, although resistance to lindane does exist. Lindane 1%, permethrin 1%, and pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide are all effective treatments for pediculosis. Severe reactions to lindane therapy may occur when increased skin absorption of lindane occurs. Permethrin 5% or lindane 1% is recommended for the treatment of scabies. Lindane should be used with precautions to avoid excess skin penetration and should not be used to treat infants, young children, or pregnant or lactating women. Permethrin 1%, lindane 1%, or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide is recommended for the treatment of pediculosis pubis. Pregnant and lactating women should be treated with either permethrin or with pyrethrins containing piperonyl butoxide.

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