The pinworm test is performed to detect the eggs of the parasite Enterobius vermicularis on the skin of the perianal area.
More Information
Enterobius vermicularis (pinworms) belongs to the nematode worms and is distributed worldwide in temperate and tropical regions. The adult worms are located in the upper part of the large intestine and are transmitted by the fecal-oral route. Adult females migrate to the perianal region, especially at night, and deposit a large number of eggs.
Pinworm infection is prevalent in young school-aged children of all social classes. Pinworms do not cause significant intestinal disease but may cause irritating itching in the perianal area. More rarely they can cause vulvovaginitis in young girls and urinary tract infections, while extremely rarely they can cause appendicitis, salpingitis, epididymitis, and hepatic granuloma.
Feces are not a suitable specimen for the determination of pinworms, as only 5-10% of patients with pinworms have eggs in the stool.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
