Threadworms

Question 1

What are the features of threadworms?

Answer 1

Perianal itching at night

Girls may have vulval symptoms

Question 2

How do you diagnose threadworms?

Answer 2

Sellotape to the perianal area and sending it to the laboratory for microscopy to see the eggs.

But most patients are treated empirically

Question 3

How do you manage threadworms?

Answer 3

Mebendazole - a single dose is given

(A follow up dose may be required but only if symptoms reappear)