Introduction

Enterobiasis is caused by a small intestinal parasite called Enterobius vermicularis 

-it is the most common intestinal nematode in the United States with highest prevalence in school-aged children 

-Transmission is by the fecal-oral route 

-Gravid female worms migrate nocturnally from the cecum to the perianal region to deposit large numbers of eggs 

Symptoms & Signs 

-Most individuals with pinworm infection are asymptomatic

-The most common symptom is perianal pruritis, which is most severe at night 

-Enuresis, restlessness, insomnia, perianal scratching, cellulitis, impetigo 

Diagnosis 

-Diagnosis can be made by “Scotch Tape” technique: Apply adhesive cellulose tape to the anal region and examine under thee microscope for ova 

-Eggs are football shaped with a thin outer shell

Treatment 

-The treatment of choice is albendazole

-Other effective agents: Mebendazole, Pyrantel pamoate 

-All family members may need treatment