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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
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Sexual Transmission of American Trypanosomes from Males and Females to Naive Mates
Published on: January 27, 2019
Ectoparasites as sexually transmitted diseases
H B Routh1, Y M Mirensky, L C Parish
1Department of Dermatology, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA.
Seminars in Dermatology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Patients with scabies or pubic lice (Phthirus pubis) infestations should be screened for other sexually transmitted diseases as they often co-occur. Both conditions are treatable with Lindane 1% preparations, and household contacts should be treated for pubic lice to prevent reinfestation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) and pubic lice (Phthirus pubis) are common human ectoparasitic infestations.
- These infestations are frequently associated with other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the frequent co-occurrence of scabies and pubic lice with other STDs.
- To emphasize the importance of routine STD screening in patients presenting with these infestations.
- To discuss effective treatment options and prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and patient histories.
- Assessment of treatment efficacy for Lindane 1% preparations.
- Analysis of reinfestation patterns, particularly for Phthirus pubis.
Main Results:
- Scabies and pubic lice infestations are often concurrent with other STDs.
- Lindane 1% preparations demonstrated high efficacy in eradicating both Sarcoptes scabiei and Phthirus pubis.
- No resistant strains of either parasite were observed.
- Treatment of household contacts is essential for managing pubic lice infestations and preventing recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Patients with scabies or pubic lice should undergo routine screening for STDs.
- Lindane 1% is an effective treatment for both Sarcoptes scabiei and Phthirus pubis.
- Comprehensive management, including treating household contacts, is vital for controlling these infestations.
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