Threadworm

• What is another name for threadworm?


  Pinworm
• What is the scientific name for threadworm?


  Enterobius vermicularis
• What are the typical lengths of adult male and female threadworms?


  Males: 2-5 mm, Females: 8-13 mm
• What is the primary social issue associated with threadworm infections?


  Social embarrassment
• How are threadworms primarily transmitted?


  Faecal-oral route
• What is retroinfection in the context of threadworms?


  When larvae hatch on anal mucosa and migrate back into the sigmoid colon
• How long can threadworm eggs survive outside the body?


  Up to two weeks
• What happens after threadworm eggs are ingested?


  Duodenal fluids break them down and release larvae into the intestines
• What is the primary symptom of threadworm infection?


  Intense perianal itching
• What diagnostic method involves using tape to collect eggs?

  Sticky tape test
• Why is the sticky tape test performed in the morning?


  To collect threadworm eggs laid around the anus overnight
• What is the first-line drug treatment for threadworms?

  Mebendazole
• What is the mechanism of action of Mebendazole?


  It inhibits the worms' uptake of glucose
• What should be done if threadworm infection persists after treatment?


  Repeat treatment after 14 days
• What hygiene measures should be taken to prevent re-infection?


  Wash sleepwear, bed linen, and towels in hot water
• How long should hygiene measures be followed after treatment?


  At least 6 weeks if using hygiene measures alone
• Why is it important to cut fingernails short in preventing threadworm infection?


  It reduces space for eggs to hide and prevents accidental ingestion
• What are the key characteristics of threadworms?


  • Parasitic worm, common in children aged 4-11 years
  • White, thread-like appearance
  • Adult males: 2-5 mm, females: 8-13 mm
  • Humans are the only known host
  • Causes social embarrassment rather than serious illness
• What are the steps in the life cycle of threadworms?


  1. Eggs ingested
  2. Duodenal fluids break down eggs
  3. Larvae released in intestines
  4. Female migrates to anus at night
  5. Lays thousands of eggs on perianal area
• What are the management strategies for threadworm infection?


  • Treat all household members simultaneously
  • Use Mebendazole as first-line treatment
  • Repeat treatment after 14 days if necessary
  • Implement strict hygiene measures to prevent re-infection
• What hygiene measures are recommended to prevent threadworm spread?


  • Wash sleepwear, bed linen, and towels in hot water
  • Vacuum and damp dust home
  • Wash hands thoroughly and scrub under nails
  • Avoid nail-biting and sharing personal items