ABSTRACT
Pediculosis pubis is an ancient condition, which has been associated with humans. It was first medically documented in 1881. Pubic hair is the primary site of infestation, but other body hair may be affected. Pediculosis pubis is caused by pubic lice, also called crab lice and commonly referred to as 'crabs'. Pediculosis pubis may be present in other body hair, such as underarm hair, eyebrows, and rarely in eyelashes. Crab lice are sucking parasites which must feed on blood several times a day in order to survive. Pediculosis pubis may be coincident with other sexually transmitted infections. The incubation period can be between five days and several weeks, during which time the condition may be asymptomatic.
