Graham test and enterobiasis. An 11 years’ study

Enterobius vermicularis is an intestinal nematode more prevalent in school aged children. Usually produces anal itching, dizziness, abdominal or pelvic pain and occasionally vulvovaginitis. Laboratory diagnosis must be performed microbiologically with the Graham test, also called Graham tape. Samples must be collected early in the morning during three consecutive days from the anal edge, with adhesive transparent tape than must be attached to a laboratory slide.

During the 2001-2011 period, 6040 Graham tapes were received in our laboratory. Out of the 5598 samples correctly collected 528 (9.4%) were positive for E. vermicularis eggs. They belonged to 335 patients with ages 10 months to 86 years. Most (89.2%) were pediatric patients. The group 6 to 8 years was the most numerous. Sex distribution was very similar.

The recommended treatment is mebendazole 100 mg oral or albendazole 400 mg oral, both in single doses, repeating the same doses after 2 weeks.