Pinworm infection/ enterobiasis/ oxyuriasis is a human intestinal worm infestation caused by Enterobius vermicularis. Enterobius vermicularis infection is a common helminth infection which is prevalent worldwide. This articles provides an overview of pinworm infection.
Epidemiology
- Pinworm (seatworm/threadworm) infections are commonly seen in school-aged children but it can infect adults too irrespective of gender.
- Mostly the infected adults are parents of the infected children and their family members.
- Although pinworm infection is prevalent worldwide, it is more common in tropical regions.
- People living in crowded arrears are more prone to pinworm infections.
Signs and symptoms of pinworm infection
Some people do not show any symptom of enterobiasis while others may show
- Perianal itching
- Discomfort and irritability
- Sleeplessness due to itching
- Pinworms in stool and perianal region
- Pain and rashes in anal region
- Anal skin irritation
- Weight loss
Etiology
- Ingestion of the pinworm eggs leads to infection. The pinworm eggs being transparent and tiny are not visible to the naked eye.
- The eggs may be transferred (only human to human) from the infected person to the uninfected person when they come in contact with surfaces containing the pinworm eggs.
- Sometimes inhaling the eggs (later ingested) may also lead to infection (eg. while shaking the clothes or blankets infested with eggs)
Life Cycle of pinworm
- Egg laying usually occurs around 5 weeks after egg ingestion. The female comes out of the anus to lay eggs because oxygen is necessary for the maturation of the eggs.
- The eggs outside the anus produce itching and when scratched it can stick to the infected person’s fingers and nails and can easily be transmitted to another person.
Who is more prone?
Although everyone can get infected by pinworms, they are more prevalent in certain population such as
- Children in schools and day-care settings
- People in crowded areas such as dorms and institutions
- Home (easily transmitted from one family member)
- Children who suck their thumbs
- People who chew their fingernails
- Caretakers
- People practicing poor hygiene
Diagnosis of pinworm infection
A clear cellophane tape is stuck on the skin of the perianal region. Any eggs sticking to the sample can be identified through a microscope. This test must be done early in the morning before defecation.
Stool examination
Stool examination will reveal pinworms and sometimes even eggs.
An overview on treatment of pinworm infection
Though OTC medicines are available to treat pinworm infections, it is always preferable to consult a physician before taking any medicines.
Treatment comprises of
- Anthelmintic therapy
- Albendazole
- Mebendazole
- Pyrantel pamoate
An initial dose. A second dose (2-3 weeks after the initial dose) must be given in order to completely eliminate the eggs.
- Cream or ointments to treat itching
Complications
Pinworm infections are generally less serious. But if left untreated pinworm infection may lead to
- Urinary tract infection
- Vaginitis
- Endometriosis
- Peritonitis
- Rectal abscess
- Intestinal lesions
- Prostate granulomas
- Eczematous dermatitis and hemorrhage in some serious cases
How to prevent pinworm infection?
Pinworm infection and reinfection can be prevented by
- Bathing regularly and changing inner garments
- Wash hands with soap before eating
- Cutting nails and avoid biting them
- Not scratching the infected region
- Cleaning laundry (clothes, towels and bed sheets) of infected patients in hot water
- Disinfecting surfaces
- Avoiding children bathing together
- Cleaning carpets and rugs
- Not shaking the bedding and laundry of infected person (prevent inhaling)
- Maintaining general hygiene (clean lavatory)
- Cleaning children’s toys regularly
Written by Auxi Arobana.R