Also known as "crabs," pubic lice are small insects that typically infest the pubic hair. This eMedTV segment takes a closer look at pubic lice, including information on what they look like, how they are diagnosed, and how they are treated.
The term "pubic lice" refers to an infestation of a small parasitic insect known as Phthirus pubis. This eMedTV page further describes the causes of pubic lice, including information on activities that increase a person's risk of becoming infested.
Pubic lice are typically spread through sexual contact. This segment of the eMedTV Web site discusses the transmission of pubic lice in greater detail, including information on whether pubic lice can be spread by sitting on a toilet seat.
Signs of pubic lice can include intense, frequent itching and visible nits (eggs). This eMedTV segment discusses these and other symptoms, and also explains how signs may not always be present in a person with pubic lice.
This segment of the eMedTV archives explains in detail the process used when diagnosing public lice. One of the primary methods involves looking closely through pubic hair for nits, nymphs, or adult pubic lice.
Treatment for pubic lice typically involves using over-the-counter medication (such as permethrin). This eMedTV article covers the importance of laundering the infested person's clothing and also gives other tips on getting rid of pubic lice.
