How Do You Spell PINWORM?

1. Pinworm is a noun that refers to a small, white, parasitic worm belonging to the family Oxyuridae, specifically Enterobius vermicularis, commonly found in humans. It is also known as threadworm due to its long and thin appearance. Pinworms reside in the lower part of the intestine and rectum, where they feed on nutrients and cause infection in humans, particularly children.

   The infection caused by pinworms is medically known as enterobiasis. It is highly contagious and primarily spreads through the ingestion or inhalation of pinworm eggs present on contaminated surfaces, such as bedding, clothing, or toys. Once ingested, the eggs hatch in the intestine, and the larvae mature into adult worms within a few weeks. Female pinworms then migrate to the anal area at night to lay their eggs, causing itching and irritation.

   Symptoms of pinworm infection include intense itching around the anus or vagina, disturbed sleep, irritability, and occasionally, loss of appetite. Diagnosis is typically done by examining a small piece of clear adhesive tape placed around the anus, which picks up the eggs or adult worms for microscopic examination.

   Treatment for pinworm infection involves prescription or over-the-counter medications aimed to eliminate both adult worms and their eggs. Personal hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, keeping nails short, and washing bedding frequently, are essential to prevent reinfection and transmission to others.

2. Oxyuris.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PINWORM

The word "pinworm" is a compound noun formed from two separate words: "pin" and "worm".

The term "pin" originated from Middle English "pinne", which is derived from Old English "pinn", meaning a small metal nail or fastening. Over time, the meaning of "pin" expanded to include various small objects with pointed ends.

The word "worm" also has an ancient origin, stemming from Old English "wyrm" or "wurm", which referred broadly to a creeping or crawling creature. In Middle English, "worm" began to specifically denote a long, narrow invertebrate animal.

Therefore, when combined, the term "pinworm" literally refers to a small, narrow worm-like creature. It accurately describes a type of parasitic worm called Enterobius vermicularis, which is known for its slender and pin-like appearance.

Plural form of PINWORM is PINWORMS