CRAB LOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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The crab louse, scientifically known as Pthirus pubis, is a parasitic insect that infests the pubic region of humans. It belongs to the family of lice, small blood-sucking insects that live on the bodies of mammals. The crab louse is distinct in its appearance, with a crab-like shape and its strong gripping legs. It earned its name due to these attributes, which enable it to firmly attach itself to the coarse hair in the pubic area.
The crab louse has a tan or grayish coloration and measures around 1.5 to 2 millimeters in length. It primarily feeds on human blood and lays its eggs, known as nits, on the hair shafts close to the skin. These nits eventually hatch, releasing nymphs that quickly develop into adult lice. Crab lice can also infest other areas of the body that have coarse hair, such as the armpits, eyebrows, and even the eyelashes.
The infestation with crab lice, known as phthiriasis, commonly occurs through direct person-to-person contact, most often during sexual activities. Symptoms of infestation include intense itching in the affected area, reddened skin, and the presence of crab lice or their eggs. Crab lice can also introduce bacterial infections when scratching, leading to additional discomfort and complications.
To eradicate crab lice, treatment options include topical insecticide creams or lotions specifically formulated to kill the lice and their eggs. Additionally, thorough washing of clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water is essential to prevent re-infestation. Proper personal hygiene practices and avoiding close contact with infested individuals are vital to reducing the risk of contracting crab lice.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CRAB LOUSE
- xrab louse
- vrab louse
- frab louse
- drab louse
- ceab louse
- cdab louse
- cfab louse
- ctab louse
- c5ab louse
- c4ab louse
- crzb louse
- crsb louse
- crwb louse
- crqb louse
- crav louse
- cran louse
- crah louse
- crag louse
- crab kouse
Etymology of CRAB LOUSE
The word "crab louse" is believed to have originated from the Old English word "creopan", which means "to creep". The name "crab" refers to the sideways movement of these insects, resembling the sideways scuttling motion of a crab. Additionally, the word "louse" comes from the Old English word "lus", which means "louse" or "parasitic insect". Hence, the word "crab louse" combines these two elements to describe the specific species of louse that is known for infesting the pubic hair region of humans.
Similar spelling words for CRAB LOUSE
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