Threadworms Flashcards
name methods threadworm eggs are transmitted to host?
1) autoinfection (faecal-oral route)
2) retroinfection
3) Inhalation
What is the classic presentation of threadworms?
Night time perianal itching
What are the complicating factors involved with threadworms and what should be asked to deduce if this has occurred?
excoriation and secondary bacterial infection of perianal skin due to persistant scratching.
Ask parent if perianal skin is weeping or broken.
How do you treat threadworms in a typical patient?
mebendazole (ovex) either single tablet or 5ml with a repeated dose 14 days later
Who should be treated when threadworms occurs?
All family members with or without symptoms.
What are the referral symptoms for threadworms?
- medication failure: potantial misdiagnosis
- secondary infection of perianal skin due to itching
Discuss hygiene measures that should be followed for egg removal?
- Nails should be kept short and clean
- washing and nail scrubbing before meals and after each visit to the toilet to prevent AUTOINFECTION
- Bed linen, towels, and sleepwear should be washed on the FIRST day of treatment.
- Underwear worn underneath pyjamas to prevent scratching.
- Shower immediately on rising, washing around the anus.
- damp dusting and daily vacuuming recommended to remove eggs
What conditions need to be eliminated for a threadworm diagnosis?
- Other worm infections (roundworm and tapeworm) these are usually contracted when visiting poor and developing countries.
- Contact irritant dermatitis, dermatitis can cause perianal itching, especially in adults. If no recent family history of threadworm or no visible sign of threadworm in faeces, dermatitis is possible
Can pregnant women take ovex?
NO they should be advised to follow hygiene measures
What are the age restrictions of mebendazole?
must be over 2 years old
