What is the disease caused by pubic lice called? - briefly
The infestation of pubic lice is medically termed pediculosis pubis, also known as phthiriasis. It causes itching and visible lice or nits in the genital region.
What is the disease caused by pubic lice called? - in detail
Pubic lice infestation, medically termed pediculosis pubis, results from the ectoparasite Pthirus pubis. The insect thrives in coarse body hair, primarily the pubic region, but may also colonize eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, chest, abdomen, and armpits. Adult lice measure 1–2 mm, possess a crab‑like appearance, and feed on human blood several times a day.
Transmission occurs through close physical contact, most commonly sexual activity. Indirect spread is possible via contaminated clothing, bedding, or towels, although the parasite survives off the host for only 24–48 hours. Risk factors include crowded living conditions, poor hygiene, and shared personal items.
Typical manifestations include:
- Intense itching caused by saliva injection during feeding
- Visible live insects or translucent nits attached to hair shafts
- Small bluish or reddish macules resulting from bite sites
- Secondary bacterial infection from scratching
Diagnosis relies on visual identification of lice or eggs during a physical examination. Dermoscopy may assist in detecting hidden nits. Laboratory confirmation is rarely required.
Effective management involves:
- Topical insecticidal agents such as permethrin 1 % cream or pyrethrin‑based lotions applied to the affected area and left for the recommended duration.
- Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) for cases unresponsive to topical therapy or when extensive infestation is present.
- Removal of nits using a fine‑toothed comb after treatment to reduce reinfestation.
- Laundering clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 50 °C) or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks to kill residual parasites.
Preventive measures include abstaining from sharing personal items, maintaining personal hygiene, and using barrier methods during sexual activity. Regular inspection after potential exposure can detect early infestation and limit spread.
Complications are generally limited to intense pruritus and possible secondary bacterial skin infections, which may require antimicrobial therapy. In rare instances, lice in the eyelashes (phthiriasis palpebrarum) can cause conjunctival irritation and require ophthalmic treatment.
Epidemiologically, pediculosis pubis affects individuals of all ages worldwide, with higher prevalence in sexually active populations. Public health reporting is not mandatory in most regions, but awareness and prompt treatment are essential to control outbreaks.