Definition
It is called oxyuriasis a parasitic infection supported by the worm of children : we are talking about one of the most common infantile intestinal parasites, fortunately harmless and easily solved with specific drugs, although rather annoying. Children are the absolute riskiest subjects to contract oxyuriasis.
Causes
The leading aetiopathological agent of oxyuriasis is Enterobius vermicularis, popularly known as oxide, a thin, white worm that is transmitted by accidental ingestion of embryonated eggs, through direct contact with contaminated objects or hands. The females of the oxide, by laying thousands of larvae in the vicinity of the anus, can infect the victim, often during sleep.
- Risk factors: poor hand cleaning (especially after the toilet), infant age (5-10 years), warm temperate climate
Symptoms
The symptomatic picture of oxyuriasis is not generally severe, so much so that often the infected patient does not complain of symptoms. When symptomatic, oxyuriasis causes intermittent abdominal pain, insomnia, irritability and anal / vaginal itching.
- Complications: although rare, oxyuriasis can degenerate and increase the risk of urinary tract infections, infections of the peritoneal cavity and significant weight loss.
Information on Ossirui - Drugs for the Treatment of Oxyuriasis is not intended to replace the direct relationship between health professional and patient. Always consult your doctor and / or specialist before taking Ossirui - Drugs for the Treatment of Oxyuriasis.
drugs
Given the low risk of infection, oxyuriasis is easily treated with specific drugs, aimed at removing the parasite. Generally, it is sufficient to take specific antiparasitic drugs (eg mebendazole, pyrantel or albendazole) in a single dose to kill the worm (not eggs!). The drug dose may possibly be given again after 14 days.
The asymptomatic forms of oxyuriasis do not require any treatment, since the symptoms regress by themselves and the parasite is eliminated by evacuation.
It should also be emphasized that oxyuriasis is highly contagious: for this reason, as a precautionary measure it is advisable to extend drug therapy to all family members.
Among other prophylactic practices for oxyuriasis, remember:
- Clean the toilet tablet daily
- Change the bed sheets every 3-4 days
- Always wash your hands before eating a meal
- Avoid scratching the perianal area with your fingernails despite itching
- Trim the nails regularly
- Do not put your nails or hands in your mouth
- Mebendazole (eg Vermox): it is recommended to take an oral dose of 100 mg of the drug orally, after the first symptoms of itching and anal irritation that accompany oxyuriasis. The intake can be repeated a second time after 14 days. All family members or people living with oxyuriasis should be treated as a preventive measure.
- Albendazole (eg. Zentel): the antiparasitic drug should be taken at the dosage of a 400 mg tablet, in a single dose to be repeated after 2 weeks (if symptoms persist). The drug is also indicated for the treatment of tapeworms.
- Pirantel (eg. Combantrin) the indicative dose for the treatment of oxyuriasis is 11 mg / kg, to be taken orally. Do not exceed 1 gram dose. Repeat the administration 2 weeks after the first dose.
Therapy to alleviate the symptoms that accompany oxyuriasis : the symptom common to the symptomatic forms of oxyuriasis is anal itching. The administration of specific antiparasitic drugs (previously analyzed) may be accompanied by the concomitant application of topically applied creams, indicated to give an immediate feeling of local relief.
- Pramoxina (eg Proctofoam HC): it is a local anesthetic, useful for reducing the perception of discomfort, pain and burning that often accompanies the itching caused by oxyuriasis. The product should be applied to damaged skin, 3-4 times a day, or according to other medical indications.
- Lidocaine (eg Vagisil, Lidoc C OGN, Elidoxil): it is a drug belonging to the class of anesthetics. Also available in the form of 0.5% cream and 2% gel; it is recommended to apply the product directly on the skin affected by pinworm-dependent itching, 3-4 times a day, as needed.
- Zinc oxide: zinc oxide has anti-irritative properties and - often found in association with other substances such as sweet almond oil, beeswax, vegetable glycerol - is indicated to reduce anal itching from oxyuriasis, creating a sort of protective barrier in the perianal area.
For further information: read the article on drugs for the treatment of anal itching and vaginal itching
