Question

A patient presents with perianal itching. A peripheral swab was taken, and the image below shows the findings. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. H Nana
• B. Ancylostoma
• C. Enterobius vermicularis
• D. Necator Americanus

Hint:

In cases of perianal itching, especially at night, consider Enterobius vermicularis. Perform the "tape test" to detect pinworm eggs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The image likely shows eggs of Enterobius vermicularis, the causative agent of pinworm infection, which is a common cause of perianal itching, especially in children. The characteristic symptom of this infection is perianal pruritus, especially at night when the female worms lay their eggs around the anus. The eggs can be detected on a swab taken from the perianal area. - H Nana (Hymenolepis nana) is a tapeworm, which can cause gastrointestinal symptoms but is not typically associated with perianal itching. - Ancylostoma and Necator Americanus are hookworms, which usually cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, anemia, and occasionally pruritus, but not perianal itching. Thus, the most likely diagnosis, supported by the classic symptoms and findings, is Enterobius vermicularis.