Phthiriasis Palpebrarum

Excerpt

Phthiriasis palpebrarum, also called phthiriasis ciliaris or ciliary phthiriasis, is an ectoparasitosis of the eyelashes due to an infestation with Pthirus pubis (sometimes written Phthirus pubis), also known as pubic louse or crab louse. Phthiriasis palpebrarum is a hematophagous arthropod, grouped under class Insecta and order Anoploure. It belongs to the Pediculidae family and the genus Phthirus. It is a rare entity and can be confused with blepharitis. It is more prevalent in lower socioeconomic strata and not as rare as documented in previous reports. Probably a large number of cases are being missed since it mimics anterior blepharitis clinically. Moreover, the nits and adult lice harboring the lashes of the eye can also be easily missed. It can present with clinical features like excessive itching, lid hyperemia, and excoriated skin. The presence of phthiriasis palpebrum in a particular locality indicates a low level of hygiene, overcrowding, poverty, and lower socioeconomic locality. It is a significant infectious disease that policymakers should give importance to while practicing and defining treatment guidelines.