Pinworm infection is characterized by which symptom?

Pinworm infection is characterized by which symptom?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Jaundice
• C. Anal itching worse at night
• D. Severe coughing

Answer: (C)

The symptom most characteristic of pinworm infection is anal itching that is worse at night. This happens because female pinworms migrate to the perianal region to lay eggs while the person is sleeping, causing irritation that leads to itching and scratching. The itching at night is the hallmark and can disrupt sleep and lead to scratching that may spread eggs or cause a secondary infection. Other symptoms like diarrhea, jaundice, or a severe cough are not typical features of pinworm infection. Diagnosis is usually by a simple tape test in the morning to collect eggs around the anus, and treatment includes antiparasitic medications plus good hygiene to prevent reinfection.

The symptom most characteristic of pinworm infection is anal itching that is worse at night. This happens because female pinworms migrate to the perianal region to lay eggs while the person is sleeping, causing irritation that leads to itching and scratching. The itching at night is the hallmark and can disrupt sleep and lead to scratching that may spread eggs or cause a secondary infection. Other symptoms like diarrhea, jaundice, or a severe cough are not typical features of pinworm infection. Diagnosis is usually by a simple tape test in the morning to collect eggs around the anus, and treatment includes antiparasitic medications plus good hygiene to prevent reinfection.