Prevalence of Entrobius vermicularis (pinworm) infection and its relationship with clinical manifestations of oxyurosis, in children between 1 and 6 years of age in oraman region of Marivan

Oxyuris or pin worm is a type of roundworm (nematode genus Enterobius) which has small, thin, white slender shape. The size of adult male is about 2 to 5 mm and adult female measures 8 to 13 mm in length. The purpose of this cross- sectional study was to determine the prevalence of oxyuriasis and its correlation with clinical manifestation and allergic symptoms among children between 1 and 6 years of age in "Oraman Takht" region of Marivan, in Iran. "Oraman Takht" region consists of 10 villages. A total number of 845 children between 1and 6 years of age, were living in this area.
Material and Using systematic random sampling method, 338 children were enrolled in the study. Data were collected by means of a special questionnaire, microscopic examination of scotch tape test specimens and peripheral blood smear. Data about parents, education and occupation and children's sex and age, were recorded in a questionnaire for every subject. Peripheral blood smear were obtained from all children and was examined by a hematologist for presence of eosinophilia. Scotch tape tests were prepared by the parents after necessary instructions, and examined for the presence of oxyuriasis ova by a parasitologist.
Among 340 children in our study 139 (%41.1) were infected by E. vermicularis. The prevalence rate of infection was %37.4 in the boys and %45.3 in the girls. There was not a significant relationship between E. vermiculris infection and its clinical manifestation and allergic disease symptoms. 22 (%6.4) children showed eosinophilia in their peripheral blood smears, among them 17 (%77.3) were infected by E. vermicularis, too. There was a significant relationship between eosinophilia and E.vermicularis infection (p‹0.001).
Considering the results and importance of this subject and for better control and prevention of parasitic infection, we suggest necessary training and education for the people in regard to the life cycle of the parasite, transfer and prevention of infection. Measures for improvement of economical status, public and personal healths are recommended. Finally all the household members should be treated at the same time.