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
- Petroleum jelly.
- Apply to the eyelid margins (cover the eyelashes) daily for 10 days to smother lice and nits
- Do not apply to eyes.
Referral
All children with lice on pubic, perianal area and eyelashes to exclude sexual abuse.