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Pubic lice

Author: Steven Lamb MBChB, Department of Dermatology, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand, 1998. Updated by Vanessa Ngan, Staff writer, 1 February 2014.


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What are pubic lice?

Pubic lice (crab lice) are properly known as Phthirus pubis. Pubic lice are commonly referred to as 'crabs' because of their short, broad body (about 1 mm), and large front claws.

Pubic lice

How do you get pubic lice?

Pubic lice are contracted by close contact and are easily transmitted sexually. Pubic lice have become very uncommon in developed countries since shaving of pubic hair has become popular.

Where do pubic lice live and how do they grow?

The lice are most often found within the pubic hair but pubic lice can spread to other hairy parts of the body including armpit, beard, chest hair and thigh hair. Eyelashes can also be infested. The large claws of pubic lice allow them to grasp onto coarser pubic hairs in the groin, perianal, and axillary areas. Like other human lice, they use their mouthparts to suck blood for nutrition and at the same time inject saliva that causes itching. Pubic lice cannot survive more than one day without feeding off their human host.

Blood specks are occasionally noted on underclothes and live lice may be seen moving in the pubic hair. Tiny bleeding spots or bite marks may be noted within the pubic hairs.

What is the treatment for pubic lice?

Pubic lice are killed by insecticides. The insecticides usually contain maldison/malathion, permethrin, or pyrethrin. Topical ivermectin has been used effectively off-label.

Typically, an insecticide cream is applied directly to the skin and hair and lathered up like shampoo. A small portion may be absorbed into the body and for this reason, it is important to follow the manufacturer's advice on the duration of treatment. If you have pubic lice, note the following:

  • It is important to apply the shampoo to all hairy parts of the body apart from the eyelids and scalp – from neck to knees.
  • The insecticide cream is most easily applied while in the shower.
  • Work thoroughly into a lather and leave on for five minutes.
  • Rinse off thoroughly and dry with a towel.
  • Any remaining nits (small white spots attached to the hair shaft) should be removed by using a fine-toothed comb.
  • A repeat application of insecticide is advisable 7 days later.
  • Insecticide shampoo should not be applied near the eyes. Lice and nits can be removed by using a pair of fine forceps. Alternatively, petroleum jelly can be smeared on the eyelashes twice a day for at least 3 weeks. This suffocates the lice and their nits.
  • After treating yourself with insecticide, wash your underwear and bed linen thoroughly in hot water to prevent recurrences.
  • Sexual partners need to be treated even if they deny itching and do not appear to be infested.
  • You may be at risk of other more serious sexually transmitted infections. It is advisable to attend your doctor or sexual health clinic for a check-up.

 

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