Pinworm prevalence in preschool children attending nurseries

ABSTRACT

In Egypt, children constitute an important age group population and are considered as one of the most vulnerable groups. They are living their first exposure outside their homes susceptible to many hazards [Awad, et al., 1985]. This study was performed on 300 infants and preschool children of both sexes chosen, from 5 nurseries of different socioeconomic classes in Cairo. The work was done to measure the prevalence rate of pinworm infection by clinical examination, manifestations and parasitological analysis scotch tape method. The prevalence of pinworm infection among the sample was 20.7% and it increased with age as it was higher in children from 2 years up to 5 years [91.9%], while in infants and below 2 years of age it was 8.1%. There was no sex difference among positive and ngative children. Comparison between positive and negative children in the socioeconomic status and frequency of brushing of finger nails showed statistically insignificant differences. Examination of the positive children showed that the most frequent sign was scratching marks in the perianal region [35.5%], followed by vulvitis [24.2%] and the least common sign was septic dermatitis [1.6%]