Pediculosis pubis Other names Crabs, pubic lice. Cause Insect - a parasite louse called Phthirus pubis. Distribution Worldwide. Transmission Sexual - Prolonged close bodily contact during sex. Non-sexual - May occasionally be transmitted by sheets, towels and clothing. Incubation 10 - 14 days. Symptoms Itching of the pubic area. Observation of lice or nits (eggs attached to the pubic hair). Specks of blood on the underwear. Microscopic examination of nits on the hair. Observing the lice. Treatment Anti-lice creams or lotions containing gamma benzene hexachloride (unavailable in Singapore), benzyl benzoate, malathion, perimethrin or a shampoo containing  pyrethrins and  piperonyl butoxide. Complications No long term effects. Comments Sexual partners need to be treated. Change clothes and beddings. Nits attached to the hair can be removed by using a fine toothed-comb after first soaking in vinegar (i in 3 dilution). In hairy individuals, it may be necessary to apply treatment to the whole body.