Pubic lice, or crab lice, cause itching and skin discoloration in the pubic area and can spread to other areas of the body. Treatment includes using a lice comb, medicated shampoos, and washing bedding and clothing in hot water. Re-infestation is common, and sexual partners should be tested for other STIs.
Pubic lice, also called pubic or crab lice, is an infection caused by crab lice. The most common symptom of the condition is itching in the pubic area, although an infestation can also cause a bluish-gray tint to the skin. Sores or lesions can form in the pubic area from crab lice bites or from scratching the infected area. Pubic lice is usually spread through intimate sexual contact, although sharing bedding or clothes with an infected person can also spread the condition.
Pubic lice can spread to other areas of the body, including the abdomen, underarms and eyelashes. Eyelash examination is especially important in young children diagnosed with pubic lice, as lice can lead to an eye infection called blepharitis. Impetigo is another infection concern. Skin breaks from scratching can allow strep or staph bacteria to infect open wounds, leading to bacterial infections that can cause sores, blisters, or an oozing rash.
Most cases of pubic lice can be treated effectively at home. Using a special lice comb can help remove the bugs and nits, or eggs, from the pubic area and anywhere else the bugs have migrated to. Trimming your pubic hair can make it easier to remove the bugs. Over-the-counter medicated shampoos or rinses kill the lice and eggs, though it’s important to avoid the tip of the penis and the opening of the vagina. The chemicals in these products can irritate the mucous membranes.
The chemical treatment should be repeated within 10 to 10 days if the infestation does not clear up completely. All bedding and clothing that comes into contact with the infected person should be washed in very hot water and dried on high heat to kill the lice. People with pubic lice should avoid sexual contact with others until the infection clears, as it is easy to spread even without having sex.
Patients should consult a doctor if the infection does not resolve with home remedies. Prescription shampoos and creams can help get rid of head lice infestations that are resistant to over-the-counter products. If the area is red or swollen, or if pus-filled lesions appear, a doctor may prescribe an antibacterial medication or cream to help treat the skin infection. Re-infestation is common, so it’s important to abstain from sexual contact until all lice and nits are gone and the itching and other symptoms have completely subsided. People who get pubic lice through sexual contact should be tested for other sexually transmitted infections.
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