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Pinworm Infection

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is a pinworm infection?

Pinworms are small, thin, white worms that infect the intestines. At night, these worms enter your child's anus and lay tiny eggs around it. Pinworm infections are most common in children 5 to 14 years old. A pinworm infection may also be called enterobiasis.

What causes a pinworm infection?

Your child may get pinworm eggs from other children or adults who are infected. He or she may get the eggs by touching bedding, clothes, or toilet seats that have eggs on them. Your child may breathe in dust that holds the eggs. The eggs may get into the air by coming loose from bedding and clothing. Your child may scratch his or her anus and then swallow the eggs. This happens if your child puts his or her fingers in his or her mouth. The eggs will grow into pinworms in your child's intestines. The pinworms may stay in your child's intestines for months.

What are the signs and symptoms of a pinworm infection?

Your child may not have any symptoms, or he or she may have any of the following:

How is a pinworm infection diagnosed?

Your child's healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms. He or she may also examine the area around your child's anus. Your child may need any of the following:

How is a pinworm infection treated?

A pinworm infection is treated with medicine that kills the pinworms inside your child's intestines. This medicine stops the pinworms from laying eggs. Other family members may also be given this medicine even if they do not have symptoms. Medicated creams may also be given to treat redness, pain, and swelling of your child's anus.

How can the spread of a pinworm infection be prevented?

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I contact my child's healthcare provider?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

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