Phthirus pubis

Pronunciation
/THAI-rus PYOO-bis/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
Phthirus pubis
Plural
Phthirus pubis

Definition

A parasitic insect that lives in the pubic region of humans, causing itching and irritation.

Etymology

From Greek 'phthiros', meaning 'louse', and Latin 'pubis', referring to the pubic region.

Example

Phthirus pubis is a sexually transmitted parasite that can spread through close contact.

Related Terms