crab louse [AS, crabba + lus] , a species of louse, Pthirus pubis, that infests the hairs of the genital area. It is often transmitted between persons by sexual contact but can also be spread by shared bedding. Pubic lice are usually easily killed with 1% permethrin or pyrethrin shampoo. Formerly called Pediculus pubis. See also lice, pediculosis.
