pinworm

A parasitic intestinal worm infection affecting a mere 200 million people worldwide, including a third of the USA. They can be diagnosed by surprising them at night with a flashlight, or by placing a sticky piece of cellophane tape against your rectum, as follows: # Preparation 1. Clear Tape (e.g. Scotch Tape). Avoid Magic tape or Package Tape 2. Flashlight 3. Assistant to spread buttocks apart # Timing of test 1. Perform immediately after awakening 2. Repeat test on 3 consecutive days # Technique (performed by family at home) 1. Roll tape around 4 fingers of hand, sticky side out 2. While assistant spreads buttocks: - Identify involved perianal area with flashlight - Touch involved perianal area with tape 1-2 times 3. Place Tape on a slide with clean side down 4. Trim tape, label slide and bring to clinic