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External Disease·Cerritos, Los Angeles County

Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Treatment in Cerritos, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Phthiriasis palpebrarum is an infestation of the eyelashes by pubic lice (Phthirus pubis) or less commonly head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis). This condition is considered a sexually transmitted infestation in adults and may indicate abuse in children. The lice attach to eyelash follicles and lay nits (eggs) at the base of lashes, causing intense itching, irritation, and blepharitis.

Cerritos patients experiencing phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Cerritos and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice)?

Phthiriasis palpebrarum is an infestation of the eyelashes by pubic lice (Phthirus pubis) or less commonly head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis). This condition is considered a sexually transmitted infestation in adults and may indicate abuse in children. The lice attach to eyelash follicles and lay nits (eggs) at the base of lashes, causing intense itching, irritation, and blepharitis.

How is Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) treated?

Treatment options include Manual removal of lice and nits with fine forceps, Petroleum jelly or bland ointment to smother organisms, Yellow mercuric oxide ointment (where available), Permethrin or other pediculicides (used carefully near eyes). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice)?

Common symptoms include Intense eyelid itching (pruritus), Visible lice or nits on eyelashes, Red, irritated eyelid margins, Blepharitis symptoms, Crusting at base of lashes. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice)?

Cerritos residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Intense eyelid itching (pruritus)
  • Visible lice or nits on eyelashes
  • Red, irritated eyelid margins
  • Blepharitis symptoms
  • Crusting at base of lashes
  • Secondary bacterial infection possible
  • May have lice in other body hair

How is Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) treated?

Treatment for Cerritos patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

Manual removal of lice and nits with fine forceps
Petroleum jelly or bland ointment to smother organisms
Yellow mercuric oxide ointment (where available)
Permethrin or other pediculicides (used carefully near eyes)
Fluorescein drops (toxic to lice)
Treatment of all body lice simultaneously
Treatment of close contacts and sexual partners

Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) FAQs for Cerritos Patients

Common questions from Cerritos patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Cerritos patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each Cerritos patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from Cerritos, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Care for Cerritos Residents

Cerritos patients seeking care for phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Cerritos residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About Cerritos

Affluent planned community with strong Asian-American population and excellent amenities

Population: 49,000+

Asian-American familiesProfessionalsAffluent householdsFamilies with children

Languages Spoken in Cerritos

Our practice serves the diverse Cerritos community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishKoreanMandarinTagalogSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Cerritos

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near Cerritos Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Cerritos patients living near:

Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
Cerritos Towne Center
Cerritos Library
Los Cerritos Center
Cerritos Auto Square

Getting to Our Office from Cerritos

Drive Time
30 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
13.8 mi

Cerritos patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 30 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Cerritos Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Cerritos Towne Center
  • Shadow Park
  • Landmark Square

Zip codes: 90703

Why Cerritos Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice)

Corneal Specialty Practice

Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice), with advanced slit lamp and topography diagnostics.

Scleral Lens Expertise

Custom scleral and specialty contact lens fittings for irregular corneas, dry eye, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Same-Day Urgent Visits

Cerritos patients with acute corneal symptoms can often be seen the same day for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Coordinated Surgical Care

When corneal surgery is needed, we coordinate with top corneal surgeons and manage your complete pre- and post-operative care.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Specialist in Cerritos

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Cerritos

See why your neighbors in Cerritos trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

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