Alternative Names
Pediculosis – pubic lice; Lice – pubic; Crabs
Definition of Pubic lice
Pubic lice are small, six-legged creatures that infect the pubic hair area and lay eggs. These lice can also be found in armpit hair and eyebrows.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Pubic lice are known as . Lice infestation is found mostly in adolescents.
Signs and tests
An examination of the outer genital area typically reveals small gray-white oval eggs (nits) attached to the hair shaft. It may also reveal adult lice. The health care provider might also see scratch marks or signs of an infection such as .
Treatment
Pubic lice are best treated with a prescription wash such as Elimite or Kwell:
Expectations (prognosis)
The proper treatment, including thorough cleaning, should get rid of the lice.
Review
A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (10/11/2008). – 12/2/2009
