In the United States pinworm infections are present in up to 12% of the general population.
The pinworm, also known medically as Enterobius Vermicularis, is a 2-13 mm white nematode that lives as an adult in the colon,caecum (a portion of the large intestine) and/or the appendix of humans.
An easily spread infection, especially in school children and in households with small children, pinworm has been estimated to effect approximately 30-50% of community populations in some areas of the United States and Western Europe.
Symptoms of Pinworm Infection
Symptoms may consist of some (not necessarily all) of the following:
- Sharp and/or prickly pain in the anal or vaginal areas
- Intense itching in anal area which increases and/or intensifies at night
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia - Caused by the nocturnal itch
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Appendicitis like symptoms - Pinworms have been found in 25% of acute appendicitis cases
- Minor or early pinworm infections may be symptomless
Risk Of Pinworm Infection
- The highest rate of pinworm infestation is found in adults ages 30-39 and children ages 5-9
- Infestation rates are equal among sexes and races
- Those living in warm climates - Especially those that are temperate throughout the year (the southern United States experiences a higher rate of pinworm cases due to the warmer year round temperatures)
- Those living in crowded conditions
Diagnosis Of Pinworm
Pinworm infection may be diagnosed by two methods:
- Self sighting as worms often may be viewed after a bowel movement (this can occur only with the adult sized worms) or on the inside of undergarments.
- A physician may run a “cellophane test” where cellophane tape is held against the anus and examined under a microscope for confirmation of worm infestation. Often the patient will be requested to run the cellophane test at home (in the morning upon waking) and bring into the physician office for analysis.
Transmission Of Pinworm
Pinworm is transmitted in the following manners:
- Contaminated food and/or drink
- Direct surface contact (furniture,bedding,clothing, doorknobs)
- Some studies have demonstrated that air transmission and exposure is possible
- Fingernail biting after surface contact
- Sexual contact
Treaments For PinwormTreatment plans include the following:
- Antiparasite medications usually supplied to the entire family include Albenza (Albendazole) or Pin-X (Pyrantel)
- Anti-itch ointments
- Instructions to properly launder sheets and clothing
- Instructions to clean toilet seat surfaces properly (clean twice a day)
- Instructions on proper hand and fingernail washing
Pinworm Infection Complications
Usually there are no major complications associated with pinworm infection although certain populations can experience the following:
- Infections in those with pre-existing bowel disease
- Infection and infestation outside the bowel wall with migration resulting in complications of the peritoneum, omentum, liver and lungs
- Urinary tract infections
- Weight loss
Pinworm Prevention
Good hygiene practices - Proper laundering, home cleaning, hand washing and food preparation.
Medical attention should be sought for proper and rapid diagnosis at the appearance of one of more the listed symptoms.
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