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Pubic lice

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Pediculosis - pubic lice; Lice - pubic; Crabs

Prevention:

Avoid sexual or intimate contact with infected people. If sexually active, use safe sex behaviors to avoid getting lice.

Good personal hygiene is always recommended. If possible, avoid trying on bathing suits while shopping. However, if you must, be sure to wear your underwear while trying them on. This may prevent transmission.

References:

Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases . 5th ed. London, UK: Churchill Livingstone, Inc.; 2000:2972-2973.

• Review Date: 10/16/2006
• Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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