Which finding is most characteristic of pinworm infection in children?

Which finding is most characteristic of pinworm infection in children?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Anal itching
• C. Abdominal pain
• D. Vomiting

Answer: (D)

The defining feature of pinworm infection is intense itching around the anal area, especially at night. This occurs because the female worms migrate to the perianal skin to lay eggs, triggering itchiness that leads to scratching and potential spread of eggs to fingers, bedding, and surfaces shared with others. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting can occur occasionally with various GI upset, but they are not characteristic of pinworm infection and vomiting is not typically a problem caused by pinworms. A practical clue for diagnosis is the tape test, where a piece of adhesive tape is applied to the perianal skin in the morning to collect eggs. Treatment focuses on anthelmintic therapy for the affected child and household contacts, plus thorough hygiene measures to prevent reinfection.

The defining feature of pinworm infection is intense itching around the anal area, especially at night. This occurs because the female worms migrate to the perianal skin to lay eggs, triggering itchiness that leads to scratching and potential spread of eggs to fingers, bedding, and surfaces shared with others. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting can occur occasionally with various GI upset, but they are not characteristic of pinworm infection and vomiting is not typically a problem caused by pinworms. A practical clue for diagnosis is the tape test, where a piece of adhesive tape is applied to the perianal skin in the morning to collect eggs. Treatment focuses on anthelmintic therapy for the affected child and household contacts, plus thorough hygiene measures to prevent reinfection.