Crabs (Pubic Lice)

By: Tavishi Gupta

Crabs, also known as pubic lice, are tiny parasites that live on the human body, particularly in the pubic hair region.

What Are Crabs?

Crabs are tiny insects called pubic lice. They are different from body lice, even though both are parasites that feed on human blood. The scientific name for crabs is Pthirus pubis. These parasites are usually found in the pubic area, but they can also live in other areas with coarse hair, such as armpits, chest, and even facial hair like beards and mustaches.

How Do Crabs Affect the Body?

Crabs attach themselves to the base of hair shafts, where they feed on blood. They cause:

• Itching: The most common symptom is intense itching in the affected area, caused by the lice biting the skin.

• Red or Blue Spots: Bites from the lice can cause small red or blue spots on the skin.

• Irritation and Inflammation: Scratching the itchy areas can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even infections if the skin is broken.

How Are Crabs Diagnosed?

Diagnosing crabs involves:

• Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will look for the lice or their eggs (nits) attached to the hair. Crabs are visible to the naked eye, but a magnifying glass may be used to spot them.

• Symptoms Review: Itching and visible lice are key indicators that you might have crabs.

How Are Crabs Treated?

Treating crabs involves:

• Over-the-Counter Medications: Special shampoos, lotions, or creams containing permethrin or pyrethrins are commonly used to kill the lice.

• Prescription Medications: In some cases, stronger medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider if over-the-counter options do not work.

• Washing and Cleaning: Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any lice or eggs. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours to ensure the lice die.

• Shaving: While shaving the affected area is not necessary, it can help reduce the number of lice, but it should be combined with proper treatment.

How Can Crabs Be Prevented?

Preventing crabs involves:

• Avoiding Close Contact: Since crabs are usually spread through close physical contact, avoiding sexual contact with an infected person can reduce the risk.

• Not Sharing Personal Items: Do not share clothing, towels, or bedding with others, especially if you suspect they might have crabs.

• Regular Hygiene: Maintaining good personal hygiene can help detect crabs early if they are present.

5 Random Facts About Crabs (Pubic Lice)

1. Pubic lice have evolved to specifically live in coarse human hair, such as in the pubic area, and are different from head lice, which live in scalp hair.

2. Crabs are usually spread through sexual contact, but they can also be transmitted through infested clothing, bedding, or towels.

3. Unlike body lice, pubic lice do not spread diseases, but their bites can lead to secondary skin infections if scratched excessively.

4. Crabs are typically about 1 to 2 millimeters long and can be seen with the naked eye, often resembling tiny crabs, which is how they got their nickname.

5. Despite their name, pubic lice can infest other areas of the body with coarse hair, such as the armpits, chest, and even eyelashes.