What is "enterobiasis"

n. an infestation with or a resulting infection caused by the pinworm Enterobius vermicularis; occurs especially in children

A pinworm infection or enterobiasis is a human parasitic disease and one of the most common parasitic worm infections (also called helminthiasis) in the developed world. It is caused by infestation of the parasitic roundworm Enterobius vermicularis, commonly called the human pinworm. Infection usually occurs through the ingestion of pinworm eggs, either through contaminated hands, food, or less commonly, water. The chief symptom is itching in the anal area. The incubation time from ingestion of eggs to the first appearance of new eggs around the anus is 4 to 6 weeks.

Pinworms are usually considered a nuisance rather than a serious disease. For this reason, enterobiasis is not classified as a neglected tropical disease unlike many other parasitic worm infections.

Treatment is straightforward in uncomplicated cases; however, elimination of the parasite from a family group or institution often poses significant problems—either due to an incomplete cure or reinfection.