What are lice called in the intimate area? - briefly
Pubic lice, also known as crabs (Pthirus pubis), are the parasites that infest the genital region. They are tiny, crab‑shaped insects that cling to coarse hair in the pubic area.
What are lice called in the intimate area? - in detail
The insects that infest the genital and surrounding skin are medically termed Pthirus pubis. Common English name is “pubic lice,” while the colloquial nickname “crabs” refers to their small, crab‑like appearance. They belong to the order Phthiraptera, suborder Anoplura, and are distinct from head‑lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and body‑lice (Pediculus humanus corporis).
Pubic lice attach to coarse hair in the pubic region, but they may also colonize axillary hair, facial hair, chest hair, and, in rare cases, eyelashes. Adults measure 1–2 mm, are gray‑brown, and have a flattened body adapted for grasping hair shafts. Females lay 2–3 eggs (nits) per day, cementing them to the hair shaft near the skin. Eggs hatch in 6–10 days, and nymphs reach maturity within 2 weeks, completing the life cycle in approximately one month.
Typical clinical signs include:
- Intense itching caused by allergic reaction to saliva and feces.
- Small bluish‑gray spots where nits are attached.
- Irritation or redness of the skin.
- Occasionally, secondary bacterial infection from scratching.
Transmission occurs primarily through sexual contact, though sharing contaminated bedding, towels, or clothing can spread the parasites. Infestation is not a disease but a parasitic condition; it does not indicate the presence of other sexually transmitted infections, yet co‑infection is common.
Management consists of:
- Topical insecticidal preparations (permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide) applied to affected area, left for the recommended duration, then washed off.
- Manual removal of nits with a fine‑toothed comb may be employed after treatment.
- Re‑treatment after 7–10 days eliminates newly hatched lice.
- Washing or discarding clothing, bedding, and towels at high temperature (≥ 50 °C) or sealing them in plastic for two weeks prevents re‑infestation.
- Partner treatment is essential to avoid reinfection.
Differential diagnosis should exclude scabies, dermatitis, fungal infections, and allergic reactions. Laboratory confirmation can be obtained by microscopic examination of collected lice or nits.
In summary, the genital‑area parasite is scientifically identified as Pthirus pubis, commonly called pubic lice or crabs, characterized by a rapid life cycle, intense pruritus, and treatment protocols centered on topical pediculicides and hygiene measures.