Case of Phthiriasis palpebrarum with blepheroconjunctivitis

Abstract

A 70-year-old woman came to ophthalmology outpatient department with complaints of repeated episodes of itching, redness and watering in both eyes of 3 months duration. She was treated with antibiotics elsewhere but had no improvement. Slit lamp examination showed lice and nits anchored to the eyelashes. Light microscopic examination of the matted eye lashes and crusts further helped in identification of the ectoparasites as Phthirus pubis (Pubic louse or Crab louse) with typical morphology.

Phthiriasis palpebrarum misdiagnosed as allergic blepharoconjunctivitis in a 6-year-old girl

“…We also found lice in the scalp hairs of this girl. Kiran et al [5] also recently reported a 70-year-old woman who complained of repeated episodes of itching, and redness and watering in both eyes for 3 months with no any improvement after treatment with antibiotics. During the slit lamp examination, the lice and nits anchored to the eyelashes were finally found.…”

Treatment of Phthiriasis Palpebrarum and Crab Louse: Petrolatum Jelly and 1% Permethrin Shampoo

“…In children, eyelashes are the most common site of the infestation [ 10 , 14 ] and phthiriasis palpebrarum may be a sign of sexual abuse, and the possibility of abuse should be investigated. Transmission by bed linens and infested clothing is less likely and doubted by some [ 7 , 10 , 14 , 15 ].…”

Arthropods affecting the human eye

“…Ocular signs and symptoms include bilateral ocular itching, irritation, observation of lice and nits, erythematous lesions (from louse bites), reddish brown deposits on the lashes, secondary blepharitis, follicular conjunctivitis and marginal keratitis (Pinckney et al, 2008). Intense pruritus caused by the saliva of the louse lead to scratching, inflammation, eczema and superadded bacterial infection (Kiran et al, 2012). Although phthiriasis may be acquired via close contact with infested individuals or contaminated clothing, towels and bedding, the parasites are typically sexuallytransmitted.…”