Enterobius vermicularis Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the scientific and common name of Enterobius vermicularis?
Scientific name: Enterobius vermicularis (also known as Oxyuris vermicularis). Common names: Pinworm, Social Worm, Society Worm.
What is the mode of transmission (MOT) of Enterobius vermicularis?
Ingestion, inhalation, and external autoinfection of embryonated eggs.
What are the diagnostic and infective stages of Enterobius vermicularis?
Diagnostic stage: Embryonated egg and adult worm. Infective stage: Embryonated egg.
What is the life cycle of Enterobius vermicularis?
- Ingestion of embryonated eggs. 2. Eggs hatch in small intestine. 3. Larvae migrate to large intestine and mature into adults. 4. Gravid females migrate to perianal folds at night to lay eggs. 5. Eggs become infective within 6 hours. 6. Retroinfection and autoinfection can occur.
How long can Enterobius vermicularis eggs survive outside the host?
Eggs can survive for days to weeks, with a maximum of 13 days.
What are key features of Enterobius vermicularis eggs?
Resistant to disinfectants. Prone to dehydration in dry air within 1 day. Infective within 6 hours.
Who is the only known host of Enterobius vermicularis?
Humans.
What are common symptoms of pinworm infection?
Asymptomatic or causes intense anal/vaginal itching, inflammation, intestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty sleeping.
What is the preferred diagnostic method for Enterobius vermicularis?
Cellophane tape prep from perianal region (Graham’s Scotch tape method). Eggs are found in feces in only 5% of cases.
What treatments are used for Enterobius vermicularis?
Albendazole, Mebendazole, Pyrantel pamoate. Treat all family members. Cure confirmed after 7 negative perianal smears.
What are the prevention and control methods for pinworm infection?
Hand washing, ointment to infected area, avoid scratching, clean linens/surfaces. Total eradication is unlikely.
What are the epidemiological features of Enterobius vermicularis?
Found worldwide, especially in temperate regions. Most common helminth infection in the U.S. May help transmit Dientamoeba fragilis.
