Dermoscopy of Pubic Louse

Abstract

© 2019 Indian Dermatology Online Journal | Published by Wolters Kluwer Medknow A 23‐year‐old unmarried man presented with itching in the inguino‐pubic region of 3 weeks duration, which had started a week after a heterosexual protected sexual contact with a commercial sex worker. Examination revealed excoriation marks in the pubic region and no suggestion of tinea, scabies, or contact allergic dermatitis. Polarized videodermoscopy revealed “crab”‐like pubic louse with a broad body and six legs bearing thick claws grasping pubic hairs [Figure 1a]. Dermoscopy of a plucked pubic hair displayed a brown‐colored viable nit with an operculum at one end [Figure 1b]. Dermoscopy of a plucked pubic hair demonstrated a nit with a viable nymph. Examination of eyelashes, scalp, and other parts was normal. Serology for human immunodeficiency virus and venereal disease research laboratory tests was negative. Treatment of the patient with two regional applications of 0.5% ivermectin lotion (10 days apart) and hot‐wash and hot dryer treatment of fomites was curative.