The Hidden Danger in the Eyelids: Diagnosis and Treatment of Bilateral Phthiriasis Palpebrarum — A Rare Pediatric Case Report

Phthiriasis palpebrarum is a rare infestation of the eyelids caused by <i>Phthirus pubis</i>. This condition is particularly noteworthy as it is a rare cause of red eyes in children and can often be confused with other forms of blepharoconjunctivitis. In this study, we examined an 11-year-old male patient who was brought to our clinic by his family and presented with redness and itching in both eyes that had persisted for a month. Biomicroscopic examination revealed two live lice with mobile legs and a semi-transparent appearance on the eyelashes of both upper eyelids, together with a large number of eggs, particularly concentrated on the right eye. No foreign body was found in the eye. After the necessary protective measures had been taken, the lice and their eggs were carefully removed from the eyelashes using forceps. The parasitological examination of eyelash samples confirmed the presence of adult lice and eggs of <i>Phthirus pubis</i>. After a suitable treatment plan was developed and detailed hygiene recommendations were thoroughly explained, the patient was discharged. During the follow-up examination conducted one week later, no lice or eggs were detected on the eyelashes, and the blepharoconjunctivitis had regressed.