A couple who neglected their seven-year-old daughter by failing to get her medical treatment for head lice and skin conditions have been put on probation.
Edinburgh Sheriff Court heard the youngster's condition was uncovered during a visit by a social worker,
Fiscal depute said: "The witness went to see her in bed and found she was in quite an unpleasant state.
"Her hair was matted, her scalp appeared to be infected, an ear was swollen and she had a severe case of head lice.
"An appointment was immediately made to let the young girl see a doctor.
"The diagnosis was that she was suffering from scabies, impetigo and a very bad case of head lice.
"Clearly no treatment had been sought for the girl who must have been suffering for some days prior to the discovery."
The 30-year-old mum and 32-year-old dad, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, previously pleaded guilty to neglecting their daughter in a manner likely to cause her unnecessary suffering or injury to health.
They also admitted failing to seek prompt medical treatment for her skin condition between March and April this year.
The mother's solicitor, Jennifer Cameron, said: "As far as the timescale is concerned she did attend at a pharmacist and had a discussion with a pharmacist and was advised it might be chicken pox.
"At the time of this offence she was struggling to cope with the care of the children and it was more and more of a burden.
"It was an isolated incident not borne out of maliciousness."
The court was told the mother-of-five was at a low risk of re-offending and was maintaining hygiene levels in the home. The youngster's father was also said to be complying with social workers.
Sheriff Neil MacKinnon ordered the couple to behave for six months and also called for additional background reports.
Last updated: 23 November 2009, 14:46
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