Enterobius vermicularis, the causative agent of pinw= orm infection, is a parasite that is widely distributed throughout the populati= on. Infection in humans is initiated by ingesting infective eggs. The eggs hatch in the intestines. Gravid female worms migrate down the colon and out the anus, wh= ere eggs are deposited on the perianal and perineal skin. The best way to diagn= ose infection is by demonstrating the presence of eggs or worms on the perianal= or perineal region.
Specimens are best obtained in the morning immediate= ly upon rising before a bowel movement or bathing. It is best to wake the pati= ent approximately one hour before normal time of arising.
Collection of three to six consecutive daily specime= ns is recommended.
If you have any questions, please call the Laborator=
y at
795-2330.
Hold the paddle by the cap and remove it from the tu= be.
Separate the buttocks and press the tacky surface ag= ainst several areas of the perianal region.
Replace the paddle in the tube and label with name, = date and doctor.
Specimen should be refrigerated if examination is go= ing to be delayed longer than one day to prevent the pinworm eggs from hatching.
Transport to the laboratory.
Document Control
Facility: Central Maine Med=
ical
Center, 300 Main Street, Lewiston, Maine&n=
bsp;
04240
Document Path\Filename: