Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Treatment in Long Beach, 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.
Long Beach 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 Long Beach 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)?
Long Beach 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 Long Beach patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:
Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) FAQs for Long Beach Patients
Common questions from Long Beach patients about our eye care services
Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182
Phthiriasis Palpebrarum (Eyelash Lice) Care for Long Beach Residents
Long Beach 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 Long Beach 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 Long Beach
Diverse major port city with vibrant arts and culture scene
Population: 450,000+
Languages Spoken in Long Beach
Our practice serves the diverse Long Beach community. We provide care to patients who speak:
Eye Health Priorities for Long Beach
- Comprehensive eye examinations
- Contact lens fittings
- Glasses and eyewear
- Eye disease treatment
- Emergency eye care
Conveniently Located Near Long Beach Landmarks
Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Long Beach patients living near:
Getting to Our Office from Long Beach
Long Beach patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 22 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 DirectionsLong Beach Neighborhoods We Serve
- Belmont Shore
- Bixby Knolls
- Naples
- El Dorado Park
- Downtown Long Beach
- Alamitos Beach
Zip codes: 90802, 90803, 90804, 90805, 90806, 90807, 90808, 90810, 90813, 90814, 90815
Why Long Beach 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
Long Beach 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 Long Beach
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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