ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

Which patient demographic is primarily affected by pinworms?

1. Newborns

2. Adolescents

3. Adults

4. Pediatric patients

The correct answer is: Pediatric patients

Pinworms, also known as Enterobius vermicularis, primarily affect pediatric patients. This is largely due to their mode of transmission and how these specific groups interact in environments that facilitate the spread of the infection. Children, particularly those in school or daycare settings, are at higher risk because they often engage in close contact with one another and may not practice meticulous hygiene. The lifecycle of pinworms involves ingesting eggs that can be found on contaminated surfaces or hands. Young children are often less aware of the importance of handwashing and tend to have habits that promote the spread of these eggs, such as thumb-sucking or touching their mouth after playing. When looking at other demographics, newborns are less affected due to their limited mobility and interactions. Adolescents may contract pinworms but are generally less susceptible compared to younger children, as they are more aware of hygiene practices. Adults can also harbor pinworm infections, but these situations are usually less common and can often arise from exposure while caring for infected children. Thus, while pinworms can indeed affect a broader demographic, it is the pediatric population that is most prominently impacted.