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Parasitic stool examination for pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of pinworms (also called seatworms) in your stool. Pinworms are small, thread-like worms that can cause itching around the anus and sometimes in the vagina or penis.

Quick summary

["A pinworm stool test helps diagnose an infection that may cause discomfort or itching."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6676-1
Short code
E vermicularis Anal Ql Pinworm Exam
Synonyms
E vermicularis Anal Ql Pinworm Exam
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
pinworm-examination
CPT
86038
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you or a family member have symptoms like persistent itching around the anus, especially at night, or if you’ve been exposed to pinworms. It’s also sometimes done as part of a routine check for children in schools or daycare settings.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to collect a fresh stool sample in the morning. If you’re using a tape test (another common method), you’ll apply adhesive tape to the anus after waking up and then send the tape to the lab.

How the Test Works

The test examines your stool (or tape sample) under a microscope to look for pinworm eggs or live worms. Some labs may also use a microscopic examination of a fresh stool sample to detect eggs.

Possible Results and Their Meaning

A positive result means pinworm eggs or worms were found in your sample. A negative result means no pinworms were detected in this test, but you may still have an infection that could spread to others.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Pinworm stool test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive test confirms a pinworm infection. Pinworms are common in children and can spread easily through close contact, sharing personal items, or poor hygiene. Treatment is usually straightforward with prescription medications to kill the worms and prevent reinfection.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no pinworms were found in this test, but pinworm infections can sometimes be intermittent. If symptoms persist, your provider may recommend retesting or another method, like the tape test, to confirm.
How often should I get retested?
If you’re treated for pinworms, retesting is often recommended 2–4 weeks after treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared. If you or others in your household have symptoms, retesting may be advised to prevent reinfection.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy