All issues > Volume 47(2); 2004

Original Article

Korean J Pediatr. 2004;47(2):177-182. Published online February 15, 2004.

An Epidemiological Study on Refractory Enterobiasis

Hyea Sook HS Ryue¹, Jo-Won JW Jung¹, Ki-Soo KS Pai¹

¹Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea

Correspondence Ki-Soo KS Pai ,Email: kisoopai@ajou.ac.kr

Abstract

Purpose
: In order to render substantial solutions to control the refractory enterobiasis, factors were evaluated which were associated with treatment failure in Enterobius vermicularis infestation.
Methods
: An epidemiological study was done in 20 patients with refractory entrobiasis and in 107 preschoolers as a control. The possible symptoms and hygienic habits which may associated with entrobiasis were surveyed by questionnaires.
Results
: The egg positive rate was 35.0% and 19.6% in patients and control, respectively. The incidence of enterobiasis peaked in 3-9 years of age. Finger sucking, nail biting, bed type, toy sucking, bed sharing with siblings, nocturnal anal pruritus, and nighttime crying/irritability were resulted in as significant factors denoting refractory enterobiasis.
Conclusion
: The prevalence of pinworm was very high in Suwon vicinities. Along with the factors contributing to the refractory enterobiasis, misuse of anti-parasitic drugs was suggested as one of the major causes.

Keywords :Refractory enterobiasis, Enterobius vermicularis, Pinworm, Epidemiology