Pubic lice

Question 1

another name- pubic lice?

Answer 1

Pthirus pubis

Question 2

what causes the itching - pubic lice?

Answer 2

Lice bite on skin and feed on blood causing the itching

-female lice lay eggs on hair next to skin

Question 3

life span of average male/female louse?

Answer 3

male= 22 days
female= 17 days

Question 4

transmission- pubic lice?

Answer 4

close genital contact

Question 5

presentation- pubic lice?

Answer 5

Itchy red papules= most common presentation
-Itching takes 1-3 weeks to develop after the first infestation but may occur immediately following re-infestation
-Itching tends to be worse at night

Blue macules may be visible at feeding sites

Minute dark-brown specks of louse excreta are sometimes seen on the skin and underwear

Question 6

investigations -pubic lice?

Answer 6

diagnosis made on finding the eggs

Question 7

treatment -pubic lice?

Answer 7

Two applications, seven days apart of:
-Malathion 0.5% aqueous lotion
OR
-Permethrin 5% dermal cream