Pinworms
Pinworms, scientifically known as Enterobius vermicularis, are small parasitic nematodes that primarily affect the gastrointestinal system of humans. Measuring about 0.5 inches in length, these white thread-like worms are most prevalent in young children, though they can easily spread to others within a household. The primary symptom of a pinworm infestation is intense itching around the anus, particularly at night, which can lead to sleeplessness, irritability, and restlessness. Individuals may also experience vague gastrointestinal symptoms such as loose stools or nausea.
Pinworms are unique in that humans are their only hosts. The lifecycle of the pinworm involves adult worms residing in the large intestine, with females migrating to the anus to deposit eggs, causing the characteristic itching. These eggs can survive outside the host for up to two weeks, facilitating further transmission. Diagnosis typically involves using adhesive tape to capture eggs, which are then examined under a microscope.
Treatment for pinworm infestations is straightforward and effective, usually involving prescription medication taken for several days to eradicate the worms. Good hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing and regular laundering of clothing and bedding, are essential to prevent re-infestation. While pinworm infestations can be bothersome, they are generally harmless and can be successfully treated.
Pinworms
ALSO KNOWN AS:Enterobius vermicularis, threadworms, seatworms
ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: Gastrointestinal system, intestines, skin
DEFINITION: A common parasitic nematode that resembles a white thread approximately 0.5 inch in length
CAUSES: Parasitic infestation
SYMPTOMS: Itching around anus that becomes worse at night, sleeplessness, irritability, general restlessness, vague gastrointestinal symptoms such as loose stools or nausea
DURATION: Acute
TREATMENTS: Drug therapy, proper hygiene
Causes and Symptoms
Infestation with pinworm, a common name for the Enterobius vermicularis, is characterized by itching around the anus that becomes worse at night, causing sleeplessness, irritability, and general restlessness. There may also be vague symptoms such as loose stools or nausea. Humans are the only host for the pathogen. Young children are most often affected, and the disease spreads easily to other members of the household.
Adult pinworms live in the large intestine. Females migrate to the anus and deposit eggs outside the body; this is the cause of the itching. Scratching often causes the eggs to be deposited on food and eaten or transferred directly to the mouth and swallowed. Newly hatched larvae migrate to the large intestine and lay eggs over a four-week period. Pinworm eggs are viable outside a host for up to two weeks.
Children typically complain of intense around the anal area at night. Scratching may cause bleeding in the region. Interrupted sleep may cause irritability during the day. Individual are not commonly seen. The most common diagnostic procedure is to apply a piece of pressure-sensitive cellulose tape to the anus and look for eggs under a microscope.
Pinworm infestation must be differentiated from fungal and yeast infections, allergies, and conditions caused by other species of worms. Fungal and yeast infections can be cultured. Allergies may include itching near the anus but usually involve other areas of the body as well. Analyzing their eggs or bodies can identify other species of worms.
Treatment and Therapy
Pinworm infestation is relatively easy to treat. Drugs requiring a physician’s prescription are taken by mouth for three to five days and usually kill the pinworms. Antihistamines can be used to obtain relief from itching.
It is very important to wash one’s hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet and before meals. Fingernails should be closely trimmed to prevent injury when scratching and to minimize the chance of transferring eggs. All clothing of a patient should be washed after each use. Laundering bedding will kill pinworm eggs.
Although pinworm infestation is annoying, it is otherwise benign. A cure can be obtained readily using appropriate drug therapy. Repeated infestation is common, however, especially among children.
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