Threadworm: an infrequent clinical finding in a genitourinary medicine clinic attendee presenting with ano-genital irritation

Abstract

A 24-year-old lady presented to an evening genitourinary (GU) clinic with a short history of vulval and anal irritation. On perianal examination, several threadworms were visible. Symptoms resolved with oral mebendazole and strict personal and environmental hygiene. Threadworm is a common and easily treatable cause of pruritus ani, yet is underreported in GU literature. If the history is suggestive, consider performing the diagnostic cellophane test and/or prescribing empirical treatment.

Oral–anal intercourse and sexual transmission ofEnterobius vermicularis; do we need to screen for other intestinal parasites?

“…Sir: It was with interest that we read the retrospective analysis of 12 HIV-positive patients with syphilitic hepatitis reported by Crum-Cianflone et al 1 These cases bring the total reported in recent years to 22. 1 -5 The common clinical signs and laboratory findings throughout these cases have been the presence of a diffuse maculopapular rash and elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and hepatic transaminases.…”

“…Sir: We read with interest the article by Sarah Day 1 describing a young heterosexual woman presenting to an evening genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic with a ‘classic’ manifestation of nocturnal pruritis ani consistent with enterobiasis. Although enterobiasis is usually asymptomatic in adults 2 and not necessary transmitted sexually, oral–anal sexual contact may enhance the exposure rate to the partner's anal area and/or faecal material during sexual activity and consequently strengthen the possibility of sexual transmission of this parasitic infection in adults.…”

Enterobiasis: threadworm infection presenting as acute appendicitis in a 13-year-old girl

“…Post appendicectomy the patient was asked about anal itching, a common symptom of threadworm infection,1 which she confirmed. The pain resolved and the patient was discharged with co-amoxiclav along with mebendazole to treat the threadworm infestation; the general practitioner was instructed to treat the family as well.…”