What Causes Anal Itching?

Discussion
Pinworms are caused by the parasite Enterobius vermicularis. Humans are the only known reservoir and are infected by fecal-oral transmission of eggs or indirectly such as through contaminated clothing or bedding. It is commonly seen in children and can easily pass to family members, plus people can become easily reinfected. The incubation period is usually 1-2 months and eggs can survive outside humans for 2-3 weeks. Adult worms migrate at night from the anus to the perianal skin and vulvar areas causing anal or vulvar itching. The itching can cause sleep problems and scratching can cause secondary bacterial infection. The worms can exist in alternative locations such as the vagina, Bartholins glands and the urethra.
Diagnosis is by direct visualization of the adult worms about 2-3 hours after sleep or by the “scotch-tape test” where upon wakening the patient has clear cellophane tape applied to the perianal skin. The tape is then reviewed under a microscope to identify the adult worms. In many cases pinworms are treated presumptively because of the difficulty of obtaining specimens. Treatment is by antihelminthic agents such as mebendazole, albendazole, and pyrantel pamoate. Handwashing and laundering items in hot water helps to decrease transmission.
As pain and itch nerves travel together it can be difficult for patients to be able to distinguish between the two different sensations. Patients may complain of general genital area pain or specific anal...

Source: PediatricEducation.org - October 31, 2022 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Pediatric Education Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news