Definition
Pinworm is defined as a "parasitic infection caused by the worm of children: we are talking about one of the most common childhood intestinal parasites, fortunately harmless and easily solved with specific drugs, although rather annoying. Children are the most at risk of contracting oxyuriasis.
Causes
The leading etiopathological agent of oxyuriasis is l "Enterobius vermicularis, popularly known as pinworm, a thin and white worm that is transmitted by accidental ingestion of embryonated eggs, through direct contact with contaminated objects or hands. The females of the pinworm, depositing thousands of larvae near the anus, can infect the victim, often during sleep.
- Risk factors: poor hand cleaning (especially after the toilet), childhood age (5-10 years), warm temperate climate
Symptoms
The symptomatological picture of "oxyuriasis is generally not serious, so much so that, often, the infected patient does not complain of symptoms. When symptomatic, pinworm causes intermittent abdominal pain, insomnia, irritability, and anal / vaginal itching.
- Complications: Although rare, pinworm can escalate and increase the risk of urinary tract infections, peritoneal cavity infections, and significant weight loss.
The information on Ossirui - Drugs for the Treatment of Ossiuriasis is not intended to replace the direct relationship between health professional and patient.Always consult your doctor and / or specialist before taking Ossirui - Drugs for the Treatment of Ossiuriasis.
Medicines
Given the low danger of the infection, oxyuriasis is easily treated with specific drugs aimed at warding off the parasite. Generally, it is sufficient to take specific antiparasitic drugs in a single dose (eg mebendazole, pyrantel or albendazole) to kill the worm (not the eggs!). The drug dose can optionally be re-administered after 14 days.
The asymptomatic forms of oxyuriasis do not need any treatment, as the symptoms subside on their own and the parasite is eliminated via bowel movements.
It should also be emphasized that oxyuriasis is highly contagious: for this reason, as a precautionary measure, it is advisable to extend drug therapy to all members of the family.
Among the other prophylactic practices against oxyuriasis, we remind you of:
- Clean the toilet seat daily
- Change the bed sheets every 3-4 days
- Always wash your hands before having a meal
- Avoid scratching the perianal area with your fingernails, despite the itching
- Trim your nails regularly
- Don't put your fingernails or hands in your mouth
The following are the classes of drugs most used in the therapy for oxyuriasis, and some examples of pharmacological specialties; it is up to the doctor to choose the most suitable active ingredient and dosage for the patient, based on the severity of the disease, the state of health of the patient and his response to treatment:
- Mebendazole (eg Vermox): it is recommended to take a dose of 100 mg of the drug orally, after the first symptoms of anal itching and irritation that accompany oxyuriasis. The intake can be repeated a second time after 14 days. All family members or people living with the pinworm patient should undergo preventive treatment.
- Albendazole (eg Zentel): the antiparasitic drug should be taken at the dosage of one 400 mg tablet, in a single dose to be repeated after 2 weeks (if symptoms persist). The drug is also indicated for the treatment of tapeworms.
- Pirantel (eg Combantrin) the indicative dose for the treatment of oxyuriasis is 11 mg / kg, to be taken orally. Do not exceed the dose of 1 gram. Repeat administration 2 weeks after the first dose.
Therapy to relieve the symptoms that accompany the "oxyuriasis: the symptom that unites the symptomatic forms of oxyuriasis is anal itching. The administration of specific antiparasitic drugs (previously analyzed) can be accompanied by the concomitant application of topical creams, indicated to give an "immediate feeling of local relief."
- Pramoxine (eg. Proctofoam HC): it is a local anesthetic, useful for reducing the perception of discomfort, pain and burning that often accompanies the itching caused by "oxyuriasis. The product should be applied to the injured skin, 3-4 times a day. , or according to further medical indications.
- Lidocaine (eg Vagisil, Lidoc C OGN, Elidoxil): it is a drug belonging to the class of anesthetics. Also available in the form of 0.5% cream and 2% gel; it is recommended to apply the product directly on the skin affected by pinworm-dependent itching, 3-4 times a day, as needed.
- Zinc oxide: zinc oxide boasts anti-irritative properties and - often found in association with other substances such as sweet almond oil, beeswax, vegetable glycerol - is indicated to reduce anal itching dependent on oxyuriasis, creating a sort of protective barrier in the perianal area.
For further information: read the article on drugs for the treatment of anal itching and vaginal itching
