Pubic pediculosis, also known as Chato, is the infestation of the pubic region by lice of the species Pthirus pubis , also known as pubic louse. These lice are able to lay eggs in the hair of the region and feed on the blood of the affected person, through bites, so it causes symptoms such as itching, hives and irritation of the intimate region.
This infection is considered an STD, because its main form of transmission is through intimate contact, although it can also be transmitted through contaminated clothing, towels or bedding. Despite being very similar to lice infection on the scalp, pubic pediculosis is caused by a different species of parasite. To learn more about scalp lice, check out how to identify and treat lice and nits.
The treatment of pubic pediculosis can be done with the removal of lice or with the use of medications such as sprays , lotions or insecticidal creams, such as Malathione or Permethrin. In cases of more severe infection, oral antiparasitic agents, such as Ivermectin, can be used, in addition to being able to associate an antibiotic if there is also infection by bacteria.
Main symptoms
The most common symptoms of boring include:
- Intense itching in the intimate region; Irritation and inflammation of the affected region; Drops of blood or bluish spots on the skin of the pubic region.
In some cases, there may be more intense reactions on the skin, especially in cases of severe infections, hives, dermatitis or infection by bacteria with the formation of pus. In addition, depending on the degree of infection, lice can infest the root of hair from other locations, such as the armpits, eyebrows or other hair on the trunk body.
Because pubic lice are translucent in color, it can be difficult to identify the infection, so itching can be confused with other causes of itching in the groin. Find out what are the main causes of itching in the groin and how to get rid of them.
How to get
Pubic lice are transmitted by passing from one hair to another, which usually happens during intimate contact, so the boring is considered an STD. However, in some cases, it is possible to get contagious by boring through contaminated clothes, towels or bedding, among people who share.
Contrary to what one might think, lice do not jump or fly and, moreover, do not usually infect dogs and cats, so transmission is usually only between people.
How the treatment is done
Forms of treatment for the boring include:
- Removal of nits and lice with tweezers or a fine comb; Use of insecticidal medications suitable for use on the skin, in the form of sprays, lotions or creams, with Lindane solution, Permethrin cream or Malathione; Use of antiparasitic tablet, such as Ivermectin, which is more indicated in cases of extensive or severe infections.
A good natural treatment for pubic pediculosis is to apply petroleum jelly or dimethicone to the affected region, because they have asphyxiating properties that help to eliminate lice. Check out more home lice treatment options.
How to prevent
To avoid being contaminated by the flat, it is important to maintain good hygiene of the pubic region, keep the hair trimmed and avoid sharing underwear.
In addition, to avoid transmission to other people of the same life, it is recommended that all bed linen and towels be washed in water with a temperature above 60ºC, if you always treat the infected person's partner.
