Parasites

Pubic lice (crabs) • Scabies

Pubic lice (crabs)

Description

Crabs or Pubic Lice are small parasites that grip onto the hair in the genital area.

Transmission

They are most commonly passed on by close body contact with someone who has crabs. As crabs can survive for some time away from the body, it is also possible to catch them by sharing towels, clothes or someone’s bed.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptom of pubic lice is itching in the pubic hair. Close inspection should reveal tiny lice clinging to the pubic hair. There may also be nits (eggs) attached to the hair shaft. Crabs can also be found in beards, armpits, on chest hair and on the eyelashes. They usually show up from three days to several weeks

Testing

An external physical examination will show the presence of crabs.

Treatment

Crabs are easily cured by using appropriate genital lice shampoos and creams available at pharmacies. Shaving the pubic area will not get rid of the crabs. All bed linen, clothes, towels and underwear that has come into contact with the infected area should be washed in a hot, soapy wash. Sexual partners and anyone in close physical contact should also be treated to avoid reinfection. It is also advisable to repeat the treatment after seven days.

If You’re HIV Positive

No additional Information.

Prevention

There are no specific means to prevent you picking up crabs, however, getting treated quickly will reduce the chances of passing it on and will reduce the amount of crabs in the community.

View example (Warning: graphic images)

This page last updated 23 July 2008