Definition

Crabs, also called pubic lice, are tiny blood sucking parasites. They are usually found in the pubic hair. They can also be found in other body areas with short hair, such as the eyelashes, eyebrows, armpit hair, and mustache hair.

Pubic lice are often called crabs because they look like tiny crabs.

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Causes

Crab lice are parasites. They are insects that need to live off of a host. Crab lice are spread by contact with a person, usually during sex. Less often, crab lice may also spread by sharing items like bedding, towels, and clothing.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk are:

• Sex with someone who has crab lice
• Contact with unclean items, such as:
  • Bedding
  • Towels
  • Clothing

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Intense itching
• Lice or eggs on body hair
• Tiny blue bumps on the skin

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor will be able to diagnose crab lice by viewing lice and lice eggs.

Treatment

Pubic lice can be treated with an over the counter shampoo or cream rinse. A prescription may be given if these medicines do not kill the lice.

Prevention

Avoid close physical or sexual contact with anyone who has crab lice.