Definition

Noun: * A parasitic infestation caused by the crab louse (Pthirus pubis), which lives and lays eggs (nits) in coarse human body hair, most commonly in the pubic region.

Usage

• This is a medical term used by healthcare professionals to diagnose a specific condition. It is a formal and technical term.
• In everyday conversation, people are more likely to use the common name "crabs" or the phrase "pubic lice infestation."

Examples

• The patient was diagnosed with pediculosis pubis after presenting with intense itching in the groin area.
• Pediculosis pubis is typically spread through intimate physical contact.
• Treatment for pediculosis pubis involves medicated lotions or shampoos designed to kill the lice and their eggs.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in clinical notes, medical literature, and public health communications.
• It can be specified further, e.g., "severe pediculosis pubis" or "recurrent pediculosis pubis."

Variants and Related Words

• Crabs (n., informal): The common, non-medical term for both the condition and the parasite itself.
• Pubic lice (n.): The standard non-slang term for the parasitic insects.
• Pthirus pubis (n.): The scientific (Latin) name for the crab louse species.
• Pediculosis (n.): The general medical term for an infestation of lice. is a specific type.

Synonyms

• Pubic lice infestation
• Crab lice infestation

Notes

• Pediculosis pubis is classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) because it is most often spread through sexual contact, but it can also be transmitted via infested bedding, towels, or clothing.
• The primary symptom is pruritus (itching) in the affected area, which is an allergic reaction to the louse bites.

Noun

1. infestation of the pubic hair by crab lice