Pinworm Infection

Pathophysiology

Pinworm infection is primarily a pediatric condition, and parents are typically infected via transmission through their children. Pinworm is prevalent throughout the temperate regions of the world and is the most common helminthic infection in the Netherlands.

Disease statistics

The people most likely to be infected with pinworm are children under 18, people who take care of infected children and people who are institutionalized. In these groups, the prevalence can reach 50%.

Treatment

Pinworm can be treated with either prescription or over-the-counter medications. A health care provider should be consulted before treating a suspected case of pinworm infection.

Research

Researchers supported by NIAID are conducting basic and clinical research on the prevention, control, and treatment of a variety of parasitic diseases, including some caused by parasitic roundworms.