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Life Cycle of Enterobius

Enterobius vermicularis, otherwise known as the pinworm, is one of the most common parasitic infections among humans. It is spread when pinworm eggs are ingested by the host. Symptoms can include perianal and vaginal itching, but there may be no symptoms. Most humans will be infected at some point in their lives.

  1. Host Ingestion of Eggs

    • The life cycle of Enterobius vermicularis begins when a human ingests the worm's eggs. Enterobius vermicularis is commonly spread by children at thumb-sucking age. Usually a child ingests eggs on the sheets or clothing of another child. Eggs are often ingested and the parasite spread at daycares and preschools. Up to 35 percent of all American children may be infected, according to the University of Hawaii.

    Eggs Move to Host's Intestines

    • The eggs of Enterobius vermicularis are digested and travel to the host's intestines. During this process, the eggs molt twice. Juvenile pinworms stay in the egg until they have developed. Once they hatch, they move into the large intestine. It takes one month after ingestion for female eggs to develop and begin producing new eggs. Enterobius vermicularis live in the host's intestines, surviving on blood and tissue cells.

    Reproduction

    • Enterobius vermicularis remain in the host's large intestine and begin to reproduce. Upon copulation, the female produces around 10,000 eggs covered in a sticky membrane. The male dies after he fertilizes the eggs. At night, she moves to the perianal skin and deposits her eggs on the perianum. Forceful expulsion of eggs spreads the sticky eggs long distances so that they cover the perineum. The female may die or return to the intestine.

    Host Transmission

    • The host's perianal area becomes irritated and itchy because of the sticky egg membranes. The host scratches the area, implanting eggs under the fingernails. The host transmits eggs to whatever he or she touches, leaving eggs behind to be picked up by the next host.

    Prevention/Solution

    • To prevent the spread of Enterobius vermicularis, fingernails should be cut short. Washing hands thoroughly after bathroom use and before touching or preparing food is also important. Washing sheets and towels in hot water can also help to prevent the spread of infection. Seek medical treatment if you develop symptoms. The infection will be treated with proper medication.

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