Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Treatment in Irvine, California
Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) — At a Glance
Severity & Type
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if you experience persistent symptoms.
Key Symptoms
- Intense eyelid itching (pruritus)
- Visible lice or nits on eyelashes
- Red, irritated eyelid margins
- Blepharitis symptoms
- Crusting at base of lashes
Treatment Options
- 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)
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.
Irvine's screen-intensive work culture can influence how phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) symptoms are experienced throughout the day. We factor your digital lifestyle into our diagnostic and treatment recommendations.
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 Irvine 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)?
Irvine professionals working at screens may first notice symptoms during extended computer use or at the end of a long workday:
- 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?
For Irvine's digital professionals, we prioritize treatments compatible with extended screen use and offer strategies to optimize visual comfort during work hours:
Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) FAQs for Irvine Patients
Common questions from Irvine patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Care for Irvine Residents
Irvine patients seeking care for phthiriasis palpebrarum (eyelash lice) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Many Irvine residents work in screen-intensive professions, so we factor digital lifestyle demands into our diagnostic and treatment recommendations. 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 Irvine
Highly educated tech hub with large Asian-American population
Population: 307,000+
Languages Spoken in Irvine
Our practice serves the diverse Irvine community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Irvine
- Computer vision syndrome treatment
- Digital eye strain solutions
- Blue light protection
- Dry eye from reduced blinking
- Ergonomic vision consultations
Conveniently Located Near Irvine Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Irvine patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Irvine
Irvine patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 15 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.
801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get DirectionsIrvine Neighborhoods We Serve
- Woodbridge
- University Park
- Northwood
- Turtle Rock
- Quail Hill
- Woodbury
Zip codes: 92602, 92603, 92604, 92606, 92612, 92614, 92617, 92618, 92620, 92697
Why Irvine 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
Irvine 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.

Your Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Specialist in Irvine
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.
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