Pinworms (Enterobious vermicularis) may be the most prevalent worm parasite in the United States and Europe. It is relatively rare in the tropics. Humans are the only host, and transmission is maintained through a fecal-oral route or, uncommonly, by inhalation of the eggs. Also called seatworms or threadworms, they are commonly found amongst children. School children get pinworms easily because they spend a lot of time with others who may have pinworms, which are highly contagious. Studies of caucasian children in the USA and Canada have shown incidences of infection from 30-80%, with similar levels in Europe. The eggs are so light that they can even float in the air.
Pinworm eggs are swallowed and hatch in the small intestine. They then move on to the large intestine where they find a warm, dark place to attach and live. After about 2 weeks, the female pinworms move to the end of the large intestine and then out of the body (usually at night) to lay their eggs around the anus, which causes itching. The eggs are then spread by scratching where they contaminate underwear, nightclothes, bed clothes, hands, and anything the contaminated hands may touch. At night, the adult worms can sometimes be seen directly in bedclothes or around the anal area.
If pinworms are suspected, transparent adhesive tape (often called the “scotch tape test”) or a pinworm paddle (supplied by your health care provider) are applied to the anal region. The eggs become glued to the sticky tape or paddle and are identified by examination under a microscope. Because bathing or having a bowel movement may remove eggs, the test should be done as soon as you wake in the morning. Three specimens should be taken on consecutive days before pinworm infection is ruled out. Since scratching of the anal region is common, samples taken from under the fingernails may also contain eggs. Eggs are rarely found during lab examinations of stool.
Pinworm infection is unlikely to cause other conditions. There are cases where the parasite has been suspected as a cause of appendicitis, and pregnant female worms have been known to migrate up the vagina and fallopian tubes and into the peritoneal cavity, where they become encapsulated. Recurrent urinary tract infections have been attributed to ectopic pinworm infections.
Signs, symptoms & indicators of Parasite, Pinworm Infection
Weak appetite
A heavy pinworm infection can cause loss of appetite.
Anal itching at night
Itching around the anus, especially at night, is a common symptom of pinworm infestation. Symptoms are caused by the female pinworm laying her eggs. This symptom, which can be severe, is usually mild, with many infected people having no symptoms at all.
Hyperactivity
A heavy pinworm infection can cause restlessness.
Being a light sleeper
A heavy pinworm infection can cause difficulty in sleeping.
Conditions that suggest Parasite, Pinworm Infection
Absence of pinworm infection
Recommendations for Parasite, Pinworm Infection
Garlic
Studies in humans support the use of garlic to treat various worms, including pinworm. [Garlic: The Science and Therapeutic Application of Allium sativum L. and Related Species. Williams & Wilkins, 1996, pp.173-4] In addition to consuming garlic, consider carefully peeling a raw garlic clove (don’t scratch or nick it), then insert into rectum before bed.
Conventional Drugs / Information
Pin-X (pinworm treatment containing pyrantel pamoate) is available over-the-counter as a single dose remedy. If you have side-effects after taking pyrantel, get advice from your health care provider before you take it again, especially if a skin rash occurs.
Personal Hygiene Changes
The following practices will help reduce the risk of continuous self-reinfection:
Key
| Weak or unproven link |
| Proven definite or direct link |
| Very strongly or absolutely counter-indicative |
| Likely to help |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Parasite
An organism living in or on another organism.
Ectopic
Located outside normal position, e.g., location of fetus in pregnancy.