Enterobius vermicularis, also known as pinworm, is a nematode parasite that is transmitted through the fecal-oral route. It causes itching in the anal area and is most common in children under the age of 9. Treatment involves antiparasitic drugs and maintaining good hygiene practices.
Enterobius vermicularis is a type of parasite called a nematode or nematode. This organism is most often transmitted through the so-called fecal-oral route. Infection is usually harmless, but secondary infections sometimes develop due to skin irritation caused by itching. An enterobiasis infection is often called a pinworm or pinworm infection.
This species of worm spends most of its life in the colon and rectum. After mating, females migrate to the skin around the outside of the anus, where they release several thousand eggs. Within hours of being released, the eggs become infective. They can remain in the environment for two to three weeks and can contribute to reinfection.
Enterobius vermicularis is an obligate human parasite, which means that humans are the only natural host of this nematode species. The infection is transmitted from person to person by the fecal-oral route, usually by handling inanimate objects. This means that the most common route of enterobiasis infection is through infectious eggs on unwashed hands, which are transmitted to inanimate objects such as clothes and toys. After an infected person touches the objects, anyone who touches them could also be infected.
The most common symptom of enterobiasis is itching of the anal area. This symptom is thought to contribute to reinfection, because itchy anus can deposit eggs under the nails, and these eggs can later be passed into the mouth. Children with this infection often sleep restlessly and may be more likely to wet the bed during the night. If the itching is excessive, constant scratching could lead to a secondary bacterial infection around the anal area. In a heavy infestation, the worms may be present in the stool, most often in the first bowel movement of the day.
Enterobiasis infection is most common in children 9 years of age and younger, but the infection can occur in people of any age. Reinfection of children in a small population, such as a school class or family group, is very common. The method of transmission of the infection means that the home or other environmental health conditions do not affect the infection rate.
Treatment of the infection is with antiparasitic drugs such as mebendazole and albendazole. Topical medications can be used to reduce itching and reduce the risk of enterobiasis re-infection. Also, children should be encouraged to wash their hands thoroughly after bowel movements or itching, because this can help prevent reinfection. While sanitary conditions do not affect whether a child will become infected, measures such as washing bedding more frequently, dusting and vacuuming can reduce the likelihood of re-infection. Any measures taken to prevent reinfection should be maintained for two to three weeks, as eggs can remain infective for about 20 days.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
