threadworm (pinworm)
A parasitic nematode worm of the genus
Enterobius (Oxyuris), which lives in the upper part of
the human large intestine. The threadlike
female worm, some 12mm long, is larger than the make; it emerges from the
anus in the evening to deposit its eggs, and
later dies. If the eggs are swallowed and reach the intestine they develop
directly into adult worms. Threadworms cause enterobiasis, a disease common
in children throughout the world. Related categories
• HEALTH
AND DISEASE • ZOOLOGY
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