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Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis or pinworm is the most common intestinal helminthic infection. Pinworms inhabit the appendix, cecum and ascending colon. The female descends the human colon at night and deposits eggs in the perianal and vaginal areas. Since the eggs are not usually shed within the intestine, the routine O and P exam on stool specimens is usually negative. Instead a cellulose tape method is used to collect eggs near the perianal skin for diagnosis of Enterobius vermicularus. Pinworms may be seen in urine, especially if the urine was obtained very early in the morning. Pinworm eggs are oval, have thick colorless shells and are flattened on one side. They must be distinguished from Trichuris trichura, which have bipolar refractile plugs.

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