Enterobiasis

Enterobiasis is caused by intestinal infection with the helminth Enterobius vermicularis, also known as threadworm or pinworm. Infection occurs following the ingestion of eggs. The females will migrate to perianal area to lay eggs and may cause perianal pruritus (itching) such that auto-innoculation can occur following scratching of the perianal area. Vulvovaginitis may also occur in females.

Enterobiasis is a common infection particularly in children under 10 years of age and may be asymptomatic.

Detection of Enterobius vermicularis by microscopy

• Sample type: Adhesive tape smear (Sellotape, Scotch tape (i.e. clear transparent adhesive tape)) taken first thing in the morning from the perianal skin and attached sticky side down to a microscope slide, is the appropriate specimen for detecting Enterobius vermicularis ova.
• Sample type: Standard stool sample – adult worms and/or ova may be present in stool samples, a negative stool result for worms and ova does not exclude the diagnosis because the ova are laid on the perianal skin.

Detection of Enterobius vermicularis by PCR

• PCR is not available for the detection of this parasite within the department.

Detection of Enterobius vermicularis by serology

• Serology is not available for the detection of this parasite.