The Itchy Eyes of a Child: A Mysterious Case of Eyelash Lice
On May 5, at midnight, a 5-year-old girl was rushed to the hospital with severe itching on her eyelids. Despite using saline drops, the itching persisted. Upon examination, Doctor Le Viet Phap from Saigon Can Tho Eye Hospital discovered dozens of lice clinging to the girl’s eyelids. The doctor promptly removed all the lice and eggs from the patient’s eyelashes and provided instructions to the family on how to prevent spreading and reinfection.
The girl’s family had noticed that she had itchy eyes and often rubbed them, noticing objects stuck to her eyelashes. The itching worsened over time, prompting the family to seek emergency treatment at the hospital. Eyelash lice, scientifically known as Pthirus pubis, are blood-sucking arthropods that parasitize humans. They can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person or indirectly through clothing and towels. Symptoms of eyelash lice include chronic irritation, itchy eyelids, and allergies caused by the lice’s saliva. The feces and saliva of the lice can lead to conjunctivitis or keratitis.
To prevent spreading and reinfection, parents are advised to use antibacterial shower gel and shampoo to remove lice, wash clothes and bedding at high temperatures, and treat the affected area with medications prescribed by a doctor. Complete resolution and prevention of spread and reinfection require treating both the patient and family members. Immediate examination and treatment are recommended for any unusual signs like scratches, pain, blurred vision, or obstructed vision.
