Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Pubic Lice

Symptoms
The primary symptom of infestation is itching in the pubic area. Scratching may spread the lice to other parts of the body; thus, every effort should be made to avoid touching the infected area. Sometimes redness or other sign of skin irritation is notable.

Diagnosis
Pubic lice are diagnosed easily because they are visible to the naked eye. They are pinhead size, oval in shape, and grayish, but appear reddish-brown when full of blood. Nits, the tiny white eggs, also are visible and usually are observed clinging to the base of pubic hair.

Treatment
Lotions and shampoos that will kill pubic lice are available both over the counter and by prescription. Creams or lotions containing lindane, a powerful pesticide (chlorinated hydrocarbon), are most frequently prescribed for the treatment of pubic lice. Take care to follow the directions on the shampoo bottle, and keep this product out of children's reach.

Pregnant women may be advised not to use this drug, and a physician's recommendations for use in infants and small children should be followed carefully.

Itching may persist even after the lice have been eliminated. This is because the skin has been irritated and requires time to heal. A soothing lotion such as calamine may offer temporary relief.

Prevention
All persons who have come in close contact with in infected person, including family and close friends as well as sex partners, should be treated to ensure that the lice are eliminated. In addition, all clothing and bedding should be dry-cleaned or washed in very hot water (125* F), dried at a high setting, and ironed to rid them of any lice.

Pubic lice die within 24 hours of being separated from the body, but the eggs may hatch for up to six days. It is important to apply the treatment for the full time recommended.

This information is excerpted from public documents available at
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease.

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