Test Details
Methodology
Microscopy
Result Turnaround Time
1 - 4 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Use
Detect cases of pinworm infestation (enterobiasis), E vermicularis parasitic infestation
Limitations
Examination for pinworm only. One negative result does not rule out possibility of parasitic infestation. Examinations on multiple days may be required to diagnose infection. Stool specimens are not satisfactory for pinworm studies.
Custom Additional Information
The most satisfactory means of diagnosing pinworm infection is by the recovery of eggs or female worms from the perianal region. Only 5% to 10% of infected persons have demonstrable eggs in their stools. If feces is submitted for examination, only the surface should be sampled. Enterobiasis often is present in multiple family members; therefore, it is recommended that all members of the family be tested. The responsible parent should be instructed how to collect samples, using one kit per individual. Female worms or parts of them may be demonstrated on the tape by microscopic examination. The proportion of positive specimens correlate with severity of disease. Eggs, if present, may be immature, embryonated (with viable or dead larvae), or (if the specimen is several days or more old) empty egg shells. Enterobius vermicularis has been reported as a rare cause of appendicitis, salpingitis, epididymitis, and hepatic granuloma. Diagnosis at colonoscopy has also been reported.
Specimen Requirements
Volume
One slide or one pinworm paddle
Container
Glass slide in slide transport or pinworm paddle
Collection Instructions
Collect specimen as soon as possible after patient arises and prior to defecation or bathing. Pat the perianal area with the sticky side of cellophane tape (do not use frosted tape), attach to a glass slide, and ship slide in a slide mailer. Alternatively, a pinworm paddle device may be used to collect specimen.
Reference Range
No pinworm eggs (Enterobius vermicularis) identified. Positives reported as few, moderate, or many eggs identified.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Use of nontransparent Scotch® Tape; Scotch® Tape on both sides of the slide; specimen that is not inside a covered container; use of frosted slide; tape sent sticky side up; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label
References
LOINC® Map
| Order Code | Order Code Name | Order Loinc | Result Code | Result Code Name | UofM | Result LOINC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 008631 | Pinworm Prep - Enterobius | 675-9 | 008632 | Pinworm Prep - Enterobius | 675-9 | |
| Order Code | 008631 | |||||
| Order Code Name | Pinworm Prep - Enterobius | |||||
| Order Loinc | 675-9 | |||||
| Result Code | 008632 | |||||
| Result Code Name | Pinworm Prep - Enterobius | |||||
| UofM | ||||||
| Result LOINC | 675-9 |