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Phthiriasis palpebrarum, a condition often found in children, is infestation of the eyelashes with crab lice (phthirus pubis), the lice typically found in the hair of the pubic area. This condition is normally rare in adults, but less so in infants, who may become infested from contact with axillary, or chest hair of parents or other care givers. Typically there is itching and irritation of the eyelid margins with inflammation of the eyelids and conjunctiva. The treatments available either have unacceptable side effects, are difficult to perform, especially on young children, or are uncomfortable. A report is presented of the treatment of 35 patients infested with eyelash lice who were treated with 1 percent mercuric oxide ointment. The patients ranged in age from 15 months to 19 years. Most (83 percent) were symptomatic; four patients without symptoms were family members of other patients, and two asymptomatic patients were noted to have nits (lice eggs) attached to their eyelashes. Treatment consisted of application of the ointment four times a day for two weeks. There was complete resolution of the disease in all patients at the completion of treatment and there were no side effects of treatment. It is concluded that treatment with 1 percent mercuric oxide ointment is safe and effective in treating eyelash lice and it is suggested as the treatment of choice, especially for children. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)