| Laboratory: | Clinical Microbiology |
| Test Name: |
PIN WORM, MICROSCOPY (WESTMAN LABORATORY ONLY)
Test Code:
PIN (Westman Lab)
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| Clinical Information: |
Test Indications:
Most Enterobius infection are asymptomatic. Symptomatic patients however, complain of nocturnal anal itching and interrupted sleep. Pin worm infections are typically found in clusters of individuals living in close proximity, such as in families, or institutinalized groups. It is particularly common in school age children (5-10 years of age). It is releatively uncommon in children <2 years of age. Recommendations: Multiple specimens are required (4-6 consecutive morning, as the female pinworm deposits eggs on the perianal skin only sporadically), before a patient is considered free of the infection. Pinworm eggs are usually infectious, wash hands with soap and water after collecting specimen. |
| Collection Devices: |
Preferred Device: "Pinworm sticky paddle test", a clear plastic paddle coated with an adhesive surface on one side.
Alternate Device: Consult Microbiology. |
| Specimen Required: |
Sticky paddle - The specimen is collected from the skin of the perianal area first thing in the morning, before the patient has bathed or used the toilet. (Adult and Pediatric) Stool examination for eggs is not helpful. |
| Referral: |
This test is only performed for patients whose samples are routinely sent to Westman Laboratory. Samples from all other patients should be sent to Cadham Provincial Laboratory.
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| Requisition: | |
| Reference Values: |
Positive: Enterobius vermicularis adult worm present or Enterobius vermicularis eggs present.
Negative: No Enterobius vermicularis eggs or adults seen. |
| Availability: |
Daily
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| See Also: | |
| More Information: |
Specimen Handling:
Transport at ambient temperature. |