About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A


Pinworms

Pinworms Overview

Pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infections are extremely common. Occurring world wide, it is estimated that there are more than 40 million cases in the United States each year, making it the most common worm infection in America. Although any individual may develop a case of pinworms, the infection occurs most frequently in school children between 5 to 10 years of age. Pinworm infections occur in all socioeconomic groups; however, human-to-human spread is favored by close, crowded living conditions. Spread among family members is common. Animals do not harbor pinworms - humans are the only natural host for this parasite.

The most common symptom of pinworms is an itchy rectal area. Symptoms are worse at night when the female worms are most active and crawl out of the anus to deposit their eggs. Although pinworm infections can be annoying, they rarely cause serious health problems and are usually not dangerous. Therapy with routine prescription medications provides an effective cure in almost all cases.



Next: Pinworms Causes »

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Pinworms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What were effective treatments for pinworms?

Anonymously share your comment to help others. Viewer Comments FAQs
Be the first to submit a comment

Submit Your Review


Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Privacy Policy

GI Disorders

Get the latest treatment options.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Pinworms

Anal Itching »

Anal Itching Overview

Anal itching is a common but annoying problem. Anal itching occurs more often in men, and, most of the time, no cause can be identified. Anal itching occurs around and near the anus, which is the opening for the bowels.

Factors that put people most at risk for anal itching are as follows:

  • Dietary factors

  • Fecal soilage

  • Diabetes

  • Recent antibiotic use

  • Chronic dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrhea

  • Profuse sweating

Anal Itching Causes

When a cause can be found, the itching is usually due to irritation of the skin around the anus.

Some of the most common irritants include the following:

  • Perfumes, chemicals, or dye on toilet paper can cause an allergic reaction.

  • Moisture from sweat o...




Read the Anal Itching article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Pinworm »

Pinworm, or Enterobius vermicularis, is prevalent throughout the temperate regions of the world and is the most common helminthic infection in the United States.

Read More on eMedicine »

Featured Topics

Topics Related to Pinworms

Medical Dictionary


or A-Z List