Oxyuridae

Oxyuridae is a family of nematode parasites commonly known as pinworms. They are intestinal parasites infecting a wide range of vertebrates, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The most well-known member of this family is Enterobius vermicularis, the human pinworm, responsible for the common parasitic infection enterobiasis.

Members of the Oxyuridae family are generally small, white worms with a characteristic pointed tail, particularly evident in females. The lifecycle typically involves direct transmission via the fecal-oral route. Adult worms reside in the large intestine, particularly the cecum and colon. Gravid (pregnant) female worms migrate out of the anus to deposit their eggs on the perianal skin, causing intense itching. Scratching of the perianal area contaminates the fingers with eggs, which can then be ingested directly or indirectly through contaminated surfaces and fomites, leading to reinfection or transmission to new hosts.

Different species within the Oxyuridae family parasitize specific hosts. For example, rodents and rabbits are often infected with different species of pinworms from those infecting humans. While infections with Oxyuridae are often asymptomatic or cause only mild discomfort, heavy infestations can lead to symptoms such as perianal itching, sleep disturbances, and, in rare cases, secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis typically involves the use of the "Scotch tape test," where a piece of clear tape is applied to the perianal skin to collect eggs, which can then be identified under a microscope. Treatment usually involves anthelmintic medications such as mebendazole or pyrantel pamoate, along with strict hygiene practices to prevent reinfection and transmission.