Enterobius vermicularis infection is usually diagnosed by finding eggs from

Enterobius vermicularis infection is usually diagnosed by finding eggs from

• A. Stool sample
• B. Blood smear
• C. Cellulose tape preps
• D. Urine sample

Answer: (C)

Diagnosis hinges on detecting Enterobius vermicularis eggs around the anal area, since the eggs are laid on perianal skin rather than in stool. The cellulose tape prep (adhesive tape collected from the perianal region and examined under a microscope) is the most reliable way to capture those eggs. Stool samples often miss the eggs because they are laid outside the intestinal tract and only intermittently shed into feces. Blood smears and urine samples do not reveal pinworm eggs or adults. For best results, collect the tape specimen in the early morning before washing or defecation, and repeat if needed.

Diagnosis hinges on detecting Enterobius vermicularis eggs around the anal area, since the eggs are laid on perianal skin rather than in stool. The cellulose tape prep (adhesive tape collected from the perianal region and examined under a microscope) is the most reliable way to capture those eggs. Stool samples often miss the eggs because they are laid outside the intestinal tract and only intermittently shed into feces. Blood smears and urine samples do not reveal pinworm eggs or adults. For best results, collect the tape specimen in the early morning before washing or defecation, and repeat if needed.