Crab louse

Crab louse (also known as Pthirus pubis) is a tiny insect that infests the hair and skin. The crab louse is a type of parasite that survives by feeding on human blood. The most common symptom of a crab louse infection is intense itching in the area of the infestation.

Overview

Crab louse is a type of lice that is different from the head and body lice. It is named 'crab louse' because it resembles a miniature crab. The crab louse is also known as the pubic louse and is most commonly spread through sexual contact. Non-sexual routes of transmission include through sharing of bedding, clothing, or towels.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a crab louse infection is intense itching, which is caused by an allergic reaction to the louse bites. Other symptoms may include low-grade fever, irritability, and the presence of small blue spots or sores in the area of the infestation.

Treatment

Treatment for crab louse involves the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications that kill lice and their eggs (nits). In addition, all clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infested person must be washed in hot water or dry-cleaned.

Prevention

Prevention of crab louse infestations involves avoiding sexual contact with an infested person and not sharing bedding, clothing, or towels with an infested person.

See also

• Lice
• Parasite
• Insect

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