Pinworm eggs



	Pinworms are a common problem in children and may spread to adults (typically the parents or other care-givers). The eggs may be easily seen under a microscope. To obtain a sample, a piece of cellophane tape is pressed against the patient's anal opening. The sticky side of the tape picks up the pinworm eggs and the tape is then stuck to a microscope slide. The eggs can be viewed under the microscope, as seen above. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

Review Date: 11/28/2012
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang. Previously reviewed by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington (8/14/2012).

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