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Nov 3
Enterobius vermicularis, also known as pinworm, is a common parasitic infection that primarily affects children. It is transmitted through the ingestion of pinworm eggs, which are typically found on contaminated surfaces such as bedding, clothing, and furniture. Symptoms of pinworm infection include itching around the anus, especially at night, as well as restlessness and irritability. Treatment typically involves the use of medication to kill the parasites and prevent reinfection. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and washing of bedding and clothing, can help prevent the spread of pinworm infection.
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Google Gemini AI
Nov 3
CDC: Enterobius vermicularis (Pinworm)
Overview
- Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is a common intestinal parasitic nematode that affects humans.
- It is highly contagious and can cause pruritus ani (itching around the anus), especially at night.
- Pinworm infection is usually asymptomatic in adults.
Life Cycle
- Pinworm eggs are ingested through contaminated food or water.
- The eggs hatch in the small intestine and release larvae that migrate to the cecum and colon.
- The larvae mature into adult worms, which live in the cecum and appendix.
- Female worms emerge from the anus at night to lay eggs around the perianal area.
Transmission
- Primary transmission occurs through the ingestion of pinworm eggs.
- Eggs are released into the environment through the feces of infected individuals.
- Eggs can survive on surfaces for several weeks.
- Autoinfection (reinfection of the same person) is possible if eggs are spread to the mouth through contaminated hands.
Symptoms
- Pruritus ani, especially at night
- Restlessness and irritability
- Insomnia
- Abdominal pain or nausea
- Weight loss (rare)
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is usually made by identifying pinworm eggs on the "Scotch tape test."
- The test involves applying a strip of transparent tape to the perianal area first thing in the morning.
- The tape is then examined under a microscope for pinworm eggs.
Treatment
- Albendazole or mebendazole (oral)
- Treat all infected individuals simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
- Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and detergent.
Prevention
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
- Keep fingernails short and clean.
- Avoid sharing towels or clothing with others.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Treat infected individuals promptly.
Epidemiology
- Pinworm infection is common worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation and overcrowding.
- It is most prevalent in children and young adults.
- The prevalence of pinworm infection in the United States is estimated to be 10-30%.
Additional Information
- Pinworm infection is usually not a serious health concern.
- However, it can cause significant discomfort and interfere with sleep.
- In rare cases, heavy pinworm infection can lead to intestinal obstruction or appendicitis.
- The CDC recommends treating all household members of an infected individual to prevent reinfection.
Overview
- Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is a common intestinal parasitic nematode that affects humans.
- It is highly contagious and can cause pruritus ani (itching around the anus), especially at night.
- Pinworm infection is usually asymptomatic in adults.
Life Cycle
- Pinworm eggs are ingested through contaminated food or water.
- The eggs hatch in the small intestine and release larvae that migrate to the cecum and colon.
- The larvae mature into adult worms, which live in the cecum and appendix.
- Female worms emerge from the anus at night to lay eggs around the perianal area.
Transmission
- Primary transmission occurs through the ingestion of pinworm eggs.
- Eggs are released into the environment through the feces of infected individuals.
- Eggs can survive on surfaces for several weeks.
- Autoinfection (reinfection of the same person) is possible if eggs are spread to the mouth through contaminated hands.
Symptoms
- Pruritus ani, especially at night
- Restlessness and irritability
- Insomnia
- Abdominal pain or nausea
- Weight loss (rare)
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is usually made by identifying pinworm eggs on the "Scotch tape test."
- The test involves applying a strip of transparent tape to the perianal area first thing in the morning.
- The tape is then examined under a microscope for pinworm eggs.
Treatment
- Albendazole or mebendazole (oral)
- Treat all infected individuals simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
- Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and detergent.
Prevention
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
- Keep fingernails short and clean.
- Avoid sharing towels or clothing with others.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Treat infected individuals promptly.
Epidemiology
- Pinworm infection is common worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation and overcrowding.
- It is most prevalent in children and young adults.
- The prevalence of pinworm infection in the United States is estimated to be 10-30%.
Additional Information
- Pinworm infection is usually not a serious health concern.
- However, it can cause significant discomfort and interfere with sleep.
- In rare cases, heavy pinworm infection can lead to intestinal obstruction or appendicitis.
- The CDC recommends treating all household members of an infected individual to prevent reinfection.
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