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Ectoparasitic infestation of the lashes
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Phthirus pubis, or crab lice, typically infest the pubic area. This case highlights crab lice infestation of the eyelashes, known as phthiriasis palpebrarum, transmitted via hand contact.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Phthirus pubis (crab louse) commonly affects the genital and pubic regions.
- Transmission is primarily through sexual contact.
- Lice can occasionally migrate to other hair-bearing areas.
Observation:
- A case of phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash infestation) in a young female is presented.
- This represents an unusual migration of Phthirus pubis from its typical habitat.
- The suspected transmission route was hand contact from an affected male's genital area.
Findings:
- Phthiriasis palpebrarum is a rare manifestation of Phthirus pubis infestation.
- Non-sexual transmission, such as via hand contact, can lead to eyelash infestation.
- This case underscores the importance of considering indirect transmission routes.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for Phthirus pubis to infest the eyelashes.
- Suggests hand-to-eyelash transfer as a possible, albeit uncommon, transmission pathway.
- Emphasizes the need for thorough patient history and examination in cases of suspected pubic lice infestation, even when symptoms appear atypical.