Purpose:
To report the case of Phthirus pubis infestation of the eyelashes presenting as chronic blepharoconjunctivitis.
Case report:
A 6-year-old girl presented with a 2-month history of blepharoconjunctivitis unresponsive to topical antibiotics in the left eye. Slit-lamp examination revealed the presence of nits and adult parasites on the eyelashes. Parasitological examination confirmed adult forms and nits of Phthirus pubis. There was no evidence of infestation elsewhere. Outcome was favourable with mechanical removal and application of petroleum jelly.
Conclusion:
Careful slit-lamp examination of the eyelashes should be done in all patients presenting with ocular irritation symptoms.