There are few things more uncomfortable than learning that your child has become infected with the pinworm parasite. These intestinal intruders affect thousands of children a year and run rampant in childcare settings. The worm infestation is very contagious and often members of a household where one child is infected will report others becoming infected, as well.
What are pinworms?
Pinworms are a roundworm known as Enterobius vermicularis. The pinworm parasite travels through several life cycle stages before maturing in the human intestine. Primary infection starts upon ingestion of pinworm eggs picked up from another infected human. Unsanitary conditions are frequently the cause of pinworm infection.
How are pinworms spread?
Pinworms are spread through fecal-oral contamination. Those that do not have proper hand hygiene have a higher incidence of the infection. Children in childcare settings are most at risk as eggs can be picked up from other children’s toys and belongings and easily ingested by another unsuspecting child. Care givers are also at risk, especially if they are involved in diaper changing or laundering children’s bedding and clothing.
Symptoms of pinworm infection
Because the female worm prefers to lay eggs at night, those infected frequently report restless sleep from intense anal itching. The itching can be so bad that scratching of the area can lead to open sores, which can then become infected. Scratching the anal area leads to reinfection when the eggs are then swallowed when the hands are not properly washed.
How pinworms are diagnosed
Pinworms are diagnosed by a licensed health care provider. A simple test involving a tongue depressor and cellophane tape is all that is necessary to obtain a sample for pinworm diagnosis. Tape is applied with the sticky side out on the end of the tongue depressor. The tape is then stuck to the side of the anus to pull loose eggs or worm larvae off of the skin. The tape is then taken to the lab and observed for the presence of the eggs and larvae.
Pinworm treatment
Pinworms are very easily treated. Medications are available which will treat the infection in just one dose. To prevent reinfection, a second dose is given two weeks later to kill any worms that may have been introduced since the last treatment. Patients under the age of two may require alternate treatment for their infections. This should be discussed with the patient’s doctor. Treatment should also be given to all members of the household to prevent reinfestation.
Pinworm infections are uncomfortable and potentially can cause a bacterial infection of the anal area. Treatment is easy and effective for ridding the body of these intestinal parasites. Patients are advised to wash hands thoroughly and do not share bedding, clothing, or bath items. Anyone suspecting they he is infected with pinworms should consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
For more information on other parasites of the anal and pubic region, read about Trichomonas infection.
Source:
Centers for Disease Control, Pinworms (Accessed January 6, 2011)
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