Cards (25)

    • What are helminths commonly known as?
      Parasitic worms
    • Where are many serious helminth infections found?
      Tropical and developing countries
    • How is the tapeworm transmitted?
      By eating raw or undercooked meat
    • What is the maximum length an adult tapeworm can grow to?
      10 metres
    • How long can adult tapeworms live?
      Up to 20 years
    • What is the most common helminth infection in developed countries?
      Threadworm
    • What is the length range of a threadworm?
      5-15 mm
    • Can threadworm be caught from pets?
      No, it only affects humans
    • Why is threadworm infection often treated discreetly?
      Due to social stigma and embarrassment
    • What is the classic symptom of threadworm infection?
      Itching around the anus
    • When do patients typically experience itching from threadworm?
      Particularly at night
    • What can excessive scratching from threadworm lead to?
      Secondary infection with bacteria
    • Who should be referred to a pharmacist for threadworm infection?
      Children under 8 years old
    • What should be done when medication for threadworm has failed?
      Refer to a pharmacist
    • What is a key characteristic of threadworm eggs?
      They are highly contagious
    • How long can threadworm eggs survive outside the body?
      Several weeks
    • What is the most effective way to prevent threadworm infection?
      Hygienic measures
    • What hygienic measures should be taken to prevent threadworm infection?
      • Wear close-fitting underwear at night
      • Change underwear every morning
      • Wear cotton gloves at night
      • Bathe or shower each morning
      • Wash hands thoroughly
      • Discourage nail biting and finger sucking
      • Avoid shared towels or flannels
    • What environmental hygiene practices help prevent threadworm infection?
      • Vacuum thoroughly and wet dust
      • Wash toys and destroy modelling materials
      • Change and wash clothing daily
      • Change and wash bed linen/towels after treatment
    • Why should medicinal treatment be recommended for all household members?
      Because it is highly contagious
    • How often should the dose of medication be repeated for threadworm?
      After 14 days
    • What is the mechanism of action of Mebendazole?
      Stops the worm from absorbing glucose
    • What age group is Mebendazole suitable for?
      Adults and children over 2 years old
    • What are some side effects of Mebendazole?
      Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, rash
    • Why must Mebendazole be avoided in pregnancy?
      It can cause damage to the foetus