From the Guidelines
Yes, adults can contract Enterobius vermicularis, commonly known as pinworms, as indicated by the diagnostic procedures outlined in the 2013 recommendations by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) 1. This parasitic infection affects people of all ages, though it's more frequently diagnosed in children. Adult infection typically occurs through direct contact with pinworm eggs from contaminated surfaces or through close contact with infected individuals, particularly in household settings. The classic symptom is intense perianal itching, especially at night when female worms emerge to lay eggs around the anus. Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of Enterobius vermicularis infection include:
- Diagnostic procedures: Pinworm paddle or Scotch tape prep from the perianal area, as specified in the guidelines 1.
- Treatment options: Antiparasitic medications are effective, but the specific choice and dosage may vary based on the most recent clinical guidelines.
- Prevention of reinfection: All household members should be treated simultaneously, bedding and underwear should be washed in hot water, and good hand hygiene must be maintained.
- Environmental cleaning: Pinworm eggs can survive on surfaces for up to three weeks, making thorough household cleaning essential to break the infection cycle. Given the potential for reinfection and the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment, it is crucial to follow the most current recommendations and guidelines for managing Enterobius vermicularis infections, as outlined in reputable sources such as the IDSA and ASM 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
PINWORM: Pinworms look like tiny white threads and live in the bowel. Usually at night, they travel to the rectal opening and lay eggs on the outside skin. Pinworms are highly contagious. Even the cleanest and most careful people can get them The same dosage schedule applies to children and adults.
Yes, adults can contract Enterobius vermicularis (pinworms) as they are highly contagious and can infect anyone, regardless of age or cleanliness 2 2.
From the Research
Enterobius Vermicularis Infection in Adults
- Enterobius vermicularis, also known as pinworm, is a cosmopolitan parasitosis that affects approximately 30% of children worldwide 3.
- While the studies provided focus on the prevalence of enterobiasis in children, they do not explicitly state that adults cannot contract the infection.
- However, it is mentioned that children aged 5 to 14 years have shown the highest prevalence of enterobiasis, suggesting that adults may be less likely to contract the infection 3.
- The mode of transmission is mainly through the fecal-oral route, and good personal hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, can help prevent the spread of the infection 3, 4.
- Treatment options, including mebendazole, pyrantel pamoate, and albendazole, are available for enterobiasis, and these medications can be effective in treating the infection in both children and adults 3, 4, 5.
- It is essential to note that while the studies provided do not specifically address the question of whether adults can contract enterobiasis, they do suggest that the infection can occur in anyone who comes into contact with the parasite, regardless of age 3, 4, 6.