Exams and Tests

Diagnosis of crabs is made from the history of the symptoms as well as close inspection of the affected body part.

• Sometimes, the doctor may take samples of the patient's pubic hair to examine under the microscope to get a closer inspection of the lice. Lice eggs, or "nits," may be found attached to hair in the pubic area.

• If a patient does see a physician for crabs, be sure they are honest about their sexual history and symptoms, because this will help get proper diagnosis and treatment.