Pubic lice (PL)

B85.3

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Infestation of lice mostly confined to pubic and peri-anal areas, and occasionally involves eyelashes.

The bites cause intense itching, which often results in scratching with bacterial super-infection.

GENERAL MEASURES

Thoroughly wash clothing and bed linen that may have been contaminated by the patient in the 2 days prior to the start of treatment in hot water and then iron.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

• Benzyl benzoate 25%
  • Apply to affected area.
  • Leave on for 24 hours, then wash thoroughly.
  • Repeat in 7 days.

Pediculosis of the eyelashes or eyebrows

• Yellow petroleum jelly (Note: Do not use white petroleum jelly near the eyes).
  • Apply to the eyelid margins (cover the eyelashes) daily for 10 days to smother lice and nits.
  • Do not apply to eyes.

LoE III

REFERRAL

All children with lice on pubic, perianal area and eyelashes to exclude sexual abuse.