Understanding Pediculosis Pubis and Its Effects on the Skin

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Rajitha Alluri , Dermatologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Pediculosis pubis, commonly known as pubic lice infestation, is a condition caused by tiny parasitic insects that infest the hair in the pubic region. These lice, also called "crabs," can spread through close physical contact with an infected person or through infested bedding.

The condition is not a reflection of poor hygiene and can affect anyone. While pubic lice infestation is not usually a serious health threat, it can cause discomfort and itching in the affected area.

The lice feed on blood and lay eggs in the hair. If not treated, the infestation can spread to other areas of body hair. Understanding the causes of pediculosis pubis can help with prevention and timely management.

What Are the Types of Pediculosis Pubis?

Pediculosis pubis, commonly known as pubic lice infestation or "crabs," can vary based on the areas affected and the clinical presentation.

Typical pediculosis pubis: Causes itching and the presence of lice and nits in the pubic hair.
Atypical pediculosis pubis: Lice may also affect other coarse body hair, such as the armpits, chest, beard, or eyelashes.
Pediculosis with secondary complications: Persistent scratching may cause skin irritation, sores, or secondary bacterial infections.

What Are the Symptoms of Pediculosis Pubis?

Pediculosis pubis can cause symptoms such as intense itching in the genital area, visible lice or eggs attached to pubic hair, and sometimes small blue spots or red bumps on the skin where the lice have bitten.

The itching may worsen at night and can lead to skin irritation or sores from scratching. It is important to seek medical advice if you suspect pubic lice to receive appropriate treatment and prevent the infestation from spreading.

Intense itching in the genital area is a common symptom of Pediculosis pubis.
Red or blue spots or tiny specks of blood on the skin near the pubic hair may indicate pubic lice bites.
Irritation or inflammation of the skin in the pubic region can occur.
Small, oval-shaped nits attached to pubic hair are a characteristic sign of Pediculosis pubis.
A crawling or moving sensation in the pubic area may occur even when lice are not easily visible.

What Are the Causes of Pediculosis Pubis?

Pubic lice are mainly transmitted through close personal contact, including sexual contact. Infestation can also occur through sharing infested clothing, towels, or bedding.

Pubic lice are not usually spread through poor hygiene. Close contact with an infested person is the main way they are transmitted. Prompt treatment can help prevent further spread.

Close contact with an infested person can spread Pediculosis pubis.
Sexual contact is a common mode of transmission for pubic lice.
Sharing infested bedding or clothing can occasionally spread pubic lice.
Sharing towels or other personal items may increase the risk of transmission.
Lice can spread to other areas of coarse body hair through close contact or self-transfer.

When Should You See a Doctor for Pediculosis Pubis?

Consult a dermatologist if symptoms of Pediculosis Pubis persist or cause significant discomfort.

Persistent itching in the genital area despite treatment
Visible lice or nits attached to pubic or other body hair
Skin irritation, sores, or inflammation from scratching

Get medical help immediately if:

Signs of secondary infection, such as pus, swelling, or severe redness
Severe pain or extensive skin damage in the affected area
An allergic reaction to treatment products, including rash or difficulty breathing

Timely care is important to treat Pediculosis Pubis and prevent complications or further spread.

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How Is Pediculosis Pubis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Pediculosis pubis usually involves visual inspection of the affected area for live lice, nits, or skin changes. A healthcare provider may examine the pubic hair and other areas of coarse body hair if the infestation is suspected to have spread.

A magnifying lens may be used for a closer inspection. If lice or nits are found, the diagnosis can usually be confirmed. In some cases, a microscopic examination of collected samples may be used to identify pubic lice.

Visual inspection of the affected area for lice, nits, or skin irritation
Use of a magnifying lens to examine pubic hair closely
Microscopic examination of collected samples in unclear cases
Review of symptoms such as itching and visible lice
Assessment for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as scabies or dermatitis

What Are the Treatment Options for Pediculosis Pubis?

Treatment involves medicated topical products that kill lice. These products may be available over the counter or by prescription and should be used exactly as directed.

Topical pediculicides: Medicated lotions, creams, or shampoos containing permethrin or pyrethrins are commonly used to kill lice and nits.
Prescription treatments: In resistant or persistent cases, medications such as ivermectin or malathion may be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Repeat application: A second treatment may be recommended after 7 to 10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Manual removal: Fine-toothed combs or tweezers can help remove visible nits from affected coarse hair.
Treatment of close contacts: Sexual partners and other close contacts may need evaluation and treatment to prevent reinfestation.

Environmental control and personal hygiene are also important parts of treatment.

Cleaning personal items: Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used recently in hot water and dry them on high heat.
Avoiding shared items: Do not share towels, clothing, or personal items until treatment is complete.
Sexual precautions: Avoid sexual contact until affected individuals have completed treatment and the infestation has cleared.
Oral medications: Oral treatment may be prescribed in selected severe or widespread cases.

Following the recommended treatment and hygiene measures helps eliminate pubic lice and reduce the risk of recurrence.

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