Threadworms

Question 1

What is the pathogen causing threadworms?

Answer 1

Enterobius vermicularis
Is a parasitic worm or helminth

Question 2

How do threadworms present?

Answer 2

90% of cases are asymptomatic
Features may include: perianal itching (esp at night)
Girls may have vulval symptoms

Question 3

How is threadworms diagnosed?

Answer 3

Applying sellotape to the perianal area - lab to see eggs under microscopy

Question 4

How is threadworms managed?

Answer 4

Manage empirically
Mebendazole single dose if >6 months
Hygiene advice and anthelmintic for household