What term describes the eggs of a louse or other parasitic infection?

Prepare for the HOSA Biomedical Laboratory Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your exam!

The term "nits" specifically refers to the eggs of lice and certain other parasitic organisms. Nits are typically found attached to the hair shafts of a host and are often oval in shape and yellow or white in color. They are a critical stage in the life cycle of lice, which includes the nymph and adult stages, and understanding their presence is crucial in managing and treating lice infestations.

In contrast, larvae refer to the immature form of an insect that undergoes metamorphosis, which is a different stage after the egg. Cysts refer to a different type of dormant form of certain microorganisms or parasites that can withstand harsh conditions, and it typically does not denote the egg stage. Ova is a more general biological term for egg cells produced by female organisms, encompassing many species and types but not specifically indicating the parasitic nature as nits do. Thus, "nits" is the most accurate term for describing the eggs of lice.

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