Global InformationPediculosis pubis information
| Pediculosis pubis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Crabs, pubic lice, phthiriasis, phthiriasis pubis |
 | |
| Pubic lice in genital area | |
| Specialty | Infectious disease |
| Symptoms | Itch, scratch marks, grey-blue marks, visible lice and nits |
| Complications | Secondary bacterial infection |
| Causes | pubic louse |
| Risk factors | Sexual activity, crowded situations |
| Diagnostic method | Direct vision of lice with or without magnifying glass |
| Treatment |
|
Pediculosis pubis (also known as "crabs" and "pubic lice") is an infestation by the pubic louse, Pthirus pubis, a wingless insect which feeds on blood and lays its eggs (nits) on mainly pubic hair. Less commonly, hair near the anus, armpit, beard, eyebrows, moustache, and eyelashes may be involved.[1][2][3] It is usually acquired during sex, but can be spread via bedding, clothing and towels, and is more common in crowded conditions where there is close contact between people.[1][4]
The main symptom is an intense itch in the groin, particularly at night. There may be some grey-blue discolouration at the feeding site, and eggs and lice may be visible.[1][2][3] Scratch marks, crusting and scarring may be seen, and there may be signs of secondary bacterial infection.[1]
Diagnosis is by visualising the nits or live lice, either directly or with a magnifying glass.[5] Investigations for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are usually performed.[6]
First line treatment usually contains permethrin and is available over the counter.[3] Two rounds of treatment at least a week apart are usually required to kill newly hatched nymphs.[5] Washing bedding and clothing in hot water kills the lice, and transmission can be prevented by avoiding sexual contact until no signs of infestation exist. Eggs may be removed by combing pubic hair with a comb dipped in vinegar.[6] Sexual partners should be evaluated and treated.[6]
Infestation with pubic lice is found in all parts of the world and occurs in all ethnic groups and all levels of society.[6] Worldwide, the condition affects about 2% of the population.[7]
- ^ a b c d Cite error: The named reference
Lippincott2011was invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b Cite error: The named reference
Salavastruwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b c Cite error: The named reference
MedlinePluswas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Cite error: The named reference
Review07was invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b Cite error: The named reference
Williams2012was invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b c d Cite error: The named reference
Preventionwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Cite error: The named reference
Anderson2009was invoked but never defined (see the help page).