Phthiriasis palpebrarum: a rare cause of blepharoconjunctivitis

Abstract

A 60-year-old woman presented at Sankara Eye Hospital, Guntur, with left eye itching of 1 month’s duration. Examination of the left eye revealed numerous, mobile, semitransparent lice grasping the roots of the eyelashes (A) along with numerous nits found on the eyelashes(B). Phthiriasis palpebrarum, an infestation of the eyelids caused by the pubic louse (Pthirus pubis), is prevalent in individuals with poor general hygiene. On cursory examination, it can mimic seborrheic blepharitis. Though rare, phythiriasis palpebrarum should be borne in mind while examining cases of blepharoconjunctivitis.