Recent Trend and Treatment of Parasitic Infections in Children

소아청소년 기생충 감염의 최신 경향 및 치료

Enterobiasis and head lice infestations, contact-borne parasitic diseases, are the most prevalent parasitic infections of children in Korea, and they are transmitted by close contact with infected persons. They are not of major concern in public health, therefore their importance in children's health care are overlooked in Korea. Egg positive rates of Enterobius vermicularis have been reported to be 10~20% among children in kindergartens and primary schools. Enterobiasis is diagnosed by scotch tape anal swab, but repeated examination is necessary for accurate diagnosis. Albendazole or mebendazole are extremely effective for treatment, however, reinfections usually occur if treatment is not repeated at least three times at a 3-week-interval, targeting the whole family members including the patients. Environmental sanitation and health education are also necessary to guarantee the successful treatment of enterobiasis. Head lice infestation is still an indication of public health status. Children of 3 to 12 years old and their families have infestations more frequently, and girls have more than boys. Diagnosis can be made by identification of live lice or nits on the head. Pediculicides are effective treatment of infestations, however they do not kill nits completely, requiring second treatment. Recently wet combing is preferred as an alternative by parents in England because of possible toxicity of drugs and resistance of lice. It is impossible to completely prevent enterobiasis and/or head lice infestations. Therefore, mass screening and prevention are required, and, in local clinics, a thorough evaluation of the symptoms and past history, and appropriate laboratory tests are necessary.