LAB TEST
Pinworm test
A pinworm test is a method used to identify a pinworm infection. Pinworms are small, thin worms that commonly infect young children, although anyone can be infected.
How the Test is Performed
When a person has a pinworm infection, adult pinworms live in the intestine and colon. At night, the female adult worms deposit their eggs outside the rectum near the anal area. One way to detect pinworms is to shine a flashlight on the anal area. The worms are tiny, white, and threadlike. If none are seen, check for…
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is necessary.
How the Test will Feel
The skin around the anus may have minor irritation from the tape.
Why the Test is Performed
This test is performed to check for pinworms, which can cause itching in the anal area.
What Abnormal Results Mean
If adult pinworms or eggs are found, the person has a pinworm infection. Usually, all household members need to be treated with medicine. This is because pinworms are easily passed back and forth within a household.
Risks
There are no risks with this test.
References
Dent AE, Kazura JW. Enterobiasis ( Enterobius vermicularis ). In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics . 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 320. Mejia R, Weatherhead J, Hotez PJ. Intestinal nematodes (roundworms). In: Bennett JE, Dolin R,…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 10/09/2022).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.