Pediculosis pubis
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
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| Pediculosis pubis | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Synonyms | Crab louse infestation, pubic lice |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Itching, visible lice or eggs in pubic hair |
| Complications | Secondary bacterial infection |
| Onset | 5 days to several weeks after exposure |
| Duration | Until treated |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Infestation by Pthirus pubis |
| Risks | Sexual contact, shared bedding or clothing |
| Diagnosis | Visual inspection, dermatoscopy |
| Differential diagnosis | Scabies, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis |
| Prevention | Avoiding shared personal items, safe sex practices |
| Treatment | Topical insecticides (e.g., permethrin, pyrethrin), oral ivermectin |
| Medication | Permethrin, pyrethrin, ivermectin |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Common in sexually active individuals |
| Deaths | N/A |
Pediculosis pubis (also known as "crabs" and "pubic lice") is a disease caused by the pubic louse. The disease is usually spread through sexual contact. It may also be spread by close personal contact or contact with articles such as clothing, bed linens, or towels that have been used by an infested person.
Symptoms[edit]
The most common symptom of pediculosis pubis is itching in the genital area. Other symptoms can include low grade fever, irritability, and presence of lice or eggs in pubic hair.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of pediculosis pubis is usually made based on the clinical presentation. The presence of lice or eggs in the pubic hair is a clear indication of the disease.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for pediculosis pubis usually involves the use of over-the-counter medications that contain permethrin or pyrethrin. In some cases, prescription medications may be required.
Prevention[edit]
Prevention of pediculosis pubis involves avoiding sexual contact with an infested person and not sharing clothing, bed linens, or towels that have been used by an infested person.
See also[edit]
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