GuidelinesPrimary Care STG
Pubic Lice (PL)
Sexually Transmitted Infections
ICD-10 Code: B85.3
DESCRIPTION
- Infestation of lice mostly confined to pubic and peri-anal areas, and occasionally involves eyelashes
- The bites cause intense itching, which often results in scratching with bacterial super-infection
GENERAL MEASURES
- Thoroughly wash clothing and bed linen that may have been contaminated by the patient in the 2 days prior to the start of treatment in hot water and then iron
MEDICINE TREATMENT
- Benzyl benzoate 25%
- Apply to affected area
- Leave on for 24 hours, then wash thoroughly
- Repeat in 7 days
Pediculosis of the eyelashes or eyebrows
- Yellow petroleum jelly
- Apply to the eyelid margins (cover the eyelashes) daily for 10 days to smother lice and nits
- Do not apply to eyes
Note:
Do not use white petroleum jelly near the eyes
REFERRAL
- All children with lice on pubic, perianal area and eyelashes to exclude sexual abuse
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Primary Healthcare Level, 2024 Edition