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Phthiriasis palpebrarum in an infant
Ugur Keklikci1, Alpay Cakmak, Nezahat Akpolat
1Department of Ophthalmology, Dicle University Faculty of Medicine, TR-21280 Diyarbakir, Turkey.
Insights
Phthiriasis palpebrarum, a pubic lice infestation of the eyelids, can occur in infants. Mechanical removal of lice and nits from eyelashes offers a successful treatment for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Parasitology
Background:
- Phthiriasis palpebrarum, an infestation of the eyelashes by pubic lice (Pthirus pubis), is uncommon in infants.
- Blepharoconjunctivitis is a common pediatric condition, but treatment-resistant cases warrant broader differential diagnoses.
Observation:
- A 9-month-old male infant presented with phthiriasis palpebrarum affecting the right upper eyelid.
- The infestation involved the presence of lice and their eggs (nits) on the eyelashes.
Findings:
- Successful treatment was achieved through the meticulous mechanical removal of all lice and nits from the affected eyelashes.
- This case highlights the importance of considering phthiriasis palpebrarum in infants with persistent or recalcitrant blepharoconjunctivitis.
Implications:
- Phthiriasis palpebrarum should be included in the differential diagnosis for infants presenting with blepharoconjunctivitis, especially when unresponsive to standard therapies.
- Early recognition and prompt mechanical removal can effectively resolve ocular infestations in pediatric patients.
- This case underscores the need for vigilance among healthcare providers regarding unusual causes of pediatric eye conditions.
Abstract:
The authors describe a case of phthiriasis palpebrarum embedded in the right upper eyelid of a 9-month-old male infant. The patient was successfully treated with mechanical removal of all lice and nits from the eyelashes. In children, phthiriasis palpebrarum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of blepharoconjunctivitis that is resistant to treatment.
