(C) Healthline
A recent case report has highlighted a rare and unsettling medical condition where a man in his 50s discovered a parasitic infestation on his eyelashes following a sexual encounter. According to the Dermatology Online Journal, a 53-year-old male patient sought medical attention after suffering from severe itching and a "gritty" sensation—similar to having sand in his eyes—for approximately three months.
The Discovery: "Crabs" in the Eyes
Upon examination, doctors found numerous small, dark parasites embedded in the upper and lower eyelashes and eyelids of both eyes. The organisms were identified as Phthirus pubis, commonly known as pubic lice or "crabs."
While these parasites are typically found in the pubic region, they can migrate to other coarse body hair, including chest hair, armpits, and, in rare cases, eyelashes. The "crab" nickname stems from their short, broad bodies and claw-like legs, which allow them to cling tightly to hair shafts. Measuring between 1.5mm and 2mm, they can easily be mistaken for large flakes of dandruff or small scabs to the naked eye.
Transmission and Diagnosis
Pubic lice are exclusively human parasites, and sexual contact is the primary mode of transmission. The infection rate is remarkably high; a single encounter with an infested partner carries a transmission risk of over 70%. These parasites survive by feeding on human blood four to five times a day, and females lay eggs (nits) that hatch within two to three weeks.
In this specific case, the medical team conducted a full screening for other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). The results revealed that the infestation had spread beyond the patient's eyes; lice were also found in his groin area. Furthermore, the patient tested positive for Chlamydia, a common bacterial STI, emphasizing the need for comprehensive testing when such parasites are discovered.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Health experts advise that anyone suspecting an infestation should seek medical help immediately to prevent further spreading. Standard treatment involves applying phenothrin lotions or powders to the affected areas. However, since chemical treatments can be irritating to the eyes, manual removal or trimming of the lashes is sometimes required under medical supervision.
To prevent re-infection, rigorous hygiene measures are essential:
Heat Treatment: Clothing, bedding, and towels must be washed in hot water (55--60C) or dry-cleaned.
Isolation: Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for at least two weeks to ensure any remaining lice and larvae die off.
Partner Notification: Sexual partners must be informed and treated simultaneously to break the cycle of transmission.
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