Abstract

LOPEZ GARCIA, JS; GARCIA LOZANO, I  and  MARTINEZ GARCHITORENA, J. Phthiriasis palpebrarum: diagnosis and treatment. Arch Soc Esp Oftalmol [online]. 2003, vol.78, n.7, pp.365-374. ISSN 0365-6691.

Phthiriasis palpebrarum, caused by Phthirus pubis, is an uncommon cause of blepharoconjunctivitis; therefore, this condition is easily misdiagnosed. When diagnosed, genital involvement must be ruled out. Association with other venereal diseases is common. Affected children must be searched for sexual abuse. The number of diagnosed patients in our department has increased in recent years. We review the epidemiological, clinical and diagnostic features of phthriasis palpebrarum as well as the different treatment options to eradicate the parasite and to prevent infestations.

Keywords : Phthriasis palpebrarum; Phthirus pubis; pediculosis; blepharitis.