How should pubic lice bites be treated? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide—such as 1 % permethrin cream or a pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide lotion—to the infested region, follow the product’s contact time, rinse, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water. Use oral antihistamines or low‑potency topical corticosteroids to control itching.
How should pubic lice bites be treated? - in detail
Bites from pubic lice require a two‑fold approach: eliminating the parasites and soothing the skin reaction.
First, eradicate the infestation. Apply a pediculicide such as permethrin 1 % lotion or pyrethrin‑based shampoo to the affected area, following the product’s instructions for duration and repeat dosing (usually a second application 7–10 days later). For resistant cases, a prescription of ivermectin (topical 0.5 % cream) or oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg single dose) may be used. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat; items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks.
Second, address the bite inflammation. Over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone 1 % cream applied two to three times daily reduces erythema and itching. Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine 10 mg once daily or diphenhydramine 25–50 mg at bedtime provide systemic relief. Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory gel (e.g., diclofenac) can be used for localized pain. Avoid scratching to prevent secondary bacterial infection; if signs of infection appear (increased warmth, pus, spreading redness), start a topical antibiotic (e.g., mupirocin 2 %) or seek medical evaluation for systemic therapy.
Additional measures include:
- Maintaining personal hygiene; gentle cleansing with mild soap twice daily.
- Trimming pubic hair to facilitate treatment application.
- Advising sexual partners to undergo simultaneous therapy to prevent reinfestation.
- Scheduling a follow‑up examination within 1–2 weeks to confirm eradication and resolve residual skin irritation.
These steps collectively ensure effective clearance of the lice and relief from the associated bite symptoms.