(Pediculosis)also called "crabs" or "cooties.".

Pubic lice look like tiny crabs; thus the name crabs. They are pale gray but darken in color when swollen with blood. They attach themselves and their eggs to pubic hair, underarm hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Their eggs are white and are deposited in small clumps near the hair roots.

Common symptoms
* intense itching in the genitals or anus
* irritability.
* mild fever
* feeling run down

Pubic Lice Are Spread

* intimate and sexual contact.
* contact with infected bedding, clothing, upholstered furniture and toilet seats

Treatment
over-the-counter medication. Some of the brands available are A-200(R),Kwell(R),NIX(R) and RID(R). Follow the directions on the package insert. Repeated head-to-toe applications may be necessary. Everyone who may have been exposed to pubic lice should be treated at the same time. All bedding, towels, and clothing that may have been exposed should be thoroughly washed or dry cleaned. The home should be thoroughly vacuumed.