Pinworm Exam, Perianal
Use
Detection of the eggs of Enterobius vermicularis on the skin of the perianal folds. Enterobius vermicularis, also known as pinworm, is a common intestinal nematode with a worldwide distribution and is the most common helminth infection in the United States, especially in young school-age children. Transmission is via the fecal-oral route, and diagnosis is best made by identifying eggs or adults from the perianal skin folds using the pinworm paddle (e.g., SWUBE device), which provides a safer and more reliable means of collection and examination.
Special Instructions
Specimen should be collected first thing in the morning, before the patient bathes or defecates. Repeat testing may be recommended to increase sensitivity in cases of light infection. Submission of completed Microbiology or Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request forms is required if not ordering electronically.
Limitations
Although adult pinworms and eggs may occasionally be observed in stool specimens, examining feces is not optimal for detecting these parasites. Care must be taken when collecting and examining as pinworm eggs are infectious within 4 to 6 hours of being laid.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 675-9
- 675-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Entire specimen
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
SWUBE disposable paddle (Falcon) or similar method of collection
Collection Instructions
See Pinworm Collection Instructions
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |