Enterobiasis may be asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally, with worms being observed in the perineal area. If any, symptoms consist of anal and/or vulvar pruritus, that may be very intense and constitute the main complaint. Scratching may lead to the appearance of excoriations, that sometimes become infected by bacteria. The perineum, anus or genitals may be erythematous or, in more severe cases, eczematous dermatitis may be diagnosed [1]. Furthermore, patients may have severe abdominal pain similar to that found in acute appendicitis [2], may be irritable and have nocturnal enuresis. Sleep is disturbed in this disease primarily because of the pruritus. Girls may present with vaginitis. Children may also develop teeth grinding, with subsequent dental consequences. Other possible symptoms and signs include inappetence, nausea, and vomiting.

If Enterobius vermicularis migrates into the female genital tract, it may cause uterus, ovary, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum granulomas [3]. Dissemination of the disease has also been described in the prostate, perianal tissue [4], epididymis [5], lungs [6], urinary bladder, spleen, liver, and conjunctival sac.

Parents may report seeing parasites on the child's perineum or on the surface of the feces. Female parasites are thin, white, about 10 mm long, while male parasites are half that size. Eggs can be found on the patient's perineum in the morning and can be captured if the transparent tape is placed on the area before the child bathes [7]. The next step is to observe them under a microscope. Eggs are described as ovoid and flat on one side. Samples should be obtained on three to five consecutive mornings [8]. Less reliable diagnostic methods are analyzing samples obtained from under the child's fingernails or asking the parent to inspect the perineal area of the child a few hours after he or she has fallen asleep, in order to observe live parasites. Stool samples are not routinely examined because eggs and adult parasites are seldom observed by this method.

In complicated cases, when granulomas are formed and need to be excised, they also can be studied. A histological analysis reveals inflammatory infiltrates, giant cells, lymphocytes, and numerous eosinophils. All these elements, in addition to fibrous tissue and necrotic material, are present around calcified parasite eggs [9]. A nodule that does not need to be excised can be punctured by fine needle aspiration [10]. In endemic areas, appendices excised for various reasons should also be analyzed [11]. Blood workup is usually noncontributory in uncomplicated cases, as eosinophilia is absent.

Enterobiasis is thought to be underreported, therefore its morbidity is difficult to be established [12].

Treatment for enterobiasis involves the use of antiparasitic medications such as mebendazole, albendazole, or pyrantel pamoate. These medications are effective in killing the adult worms but may not destroy the eggs, so a second dose is often recommended two weeks after the initial treatment to prevent reinfection. It is also important to treat all household members simultaneously, even if they are asymptomatic, to prevent the spread of the infection. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and cleaning of bedding and clothing, are essential to prevent reinfection.

The prognosis for enterobiasis is generally excellent with appropriate treatment. Symptoms typically resolve within a few days after starting medication. However, reinfection is common, especially in environments where close contact is frequent. Adhering to strict hygiene measures can significantly reduce the risk of reinfection and help control the spread of the infection.

Enterobiasis is caused by the nematode Enterobius vermicularis, commonly known as the pinworm. The lifecycle of the pinworm begins when eggs are ingested, usually through contaminated hands, food, or surfaces. The eggs hatch in the small intestine, and the larvae migrate to the colon, where they mature into adult worms. Female worms then migrate to the perianal region to lay eggs, perpetuating the cycle of infection.

Enterobiasis is one of the most common parasitic infections worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. It is particularly prevalent in temperate climates and is most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 10 years. The infection is highly contagious and spreads easily in crowded environments such as schools, daycare centers, and households. Socioeconomic factors, such as overcrowding and poor hygiene, can contribute to the spread of the infection.

The pathophysiology of enterobiasis involves the lifecycle of the pinworm, which begins with the ingestion of eggs. Once ingested, the eggs hatch in the small intestine, and the larvae migrate to the colon, where they mature into adult worms. The female worms then migrate to the perianal region to lay eggs, causing the characteristic itching. The itching can lead to scratching, which may result in the spread of eggs to the hands and under the fingernails, facilitating further transmission.

Preventing enterobiasis involves maintaining good hygiene practices. Regular handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before eating, is crucial. Keeping fingernails short and clean can help prevent the spread of eggs. Regularly washing bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water can also reduce the risk of reinfection. In environments such as schools and daycare centers, educating children and caregivers about the importance of hygiene can help control the spread of the infection.

Enterobiasis, or pinworm infection, is a common parasitic disease caused by Enterobius vermicularis. It primarily affects children and is characterized by intense perianal itching. Diagnosis is typically made through a tape test, and treatment involves antiparasitic medications. Good hygiene practices are essential to prevent reinfection and control the spread of the infection. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for enterobiasis is excellent.

Enterobiasis is a common infection caused by tiny worms called pinworms. It often affects children and causes itching around the bottom, especially at night. The infection spreads easily, so it's important to treat everyone in the household at the same time. Medicines can get rid of the worms, but good hygiene, like washing hands and keeping nails short, is key to stopping the infection from coming back. If you think you or your child might have pinworms, a simple test can confirm it, and treatment is straightforward.

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