Patient's question:
I've been feeling itchy in my private area recently, and I'm afraid I might have crabs. What are the symptoms of crabs? How should they be distinguished from other diseases?Doctor's answer:
Scabies is usually differentiated from trichomoniasis, pubic lice infestation, and external genital skin itching. The primary affected areas of scabies are the pubic hair region and the perianal area, but it can also be found in the armpit and chest hair areas. Trichomoniasis typically occurs on the softer parts of the skin, commonly seen between the fingers, elbow creases, armpits, groin, external genitalia, and under the breasts. Trichomoniasis often progresses to trichomoniasis vaginitis, while external genital skin itching is usually present in the clitoris, small labia, large labia, perineum, and perianal area. The itching from trichomoniasis is severe at night, accompanied by tiny, red blisters. Trichomoniasis vaginitis, in addition to itching, is often accompanied by yellow-green frothy or cornmeal-like vaginal discharge with a foul odor, sometimes causing external genital itching or mild lower abdominal pain.