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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.
Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|June 6, 2009
Summary
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.
