Specimen Information

Adult worms:
If an adult worm is found in the perianal region, the worm should be placed in a clean container. If 70% alcohol is available, add enough 70% alcohol to cover the worm in the container. Submit the container to the laboratory for identification.

Collection and Transport for Enterobius vermicularis:
1. Pinworm Paddles:
Optimal Collection time is first thing in the morning. Remove the paddle from the collection vial and place the sticky side of the paddle to the perianal region and then place the paddle back into the collection vial. Write the patient name, date of birth, and date collected on the vial and submit the vial to the laboratory for examination within 72 hours. Pinworm paddle collection vials are available from Lab Customer Service, (802) 847-5121.
2. Cellulose Scotch Tape preparations:
Optimal collection time is first thing in the morning. Adult female worms usually migrate from the anus at night and lay their eggs in the perianal region. To collect the specimen, clear scotch tape should be applied (sticky side down) to the perianal region and then the scotch tape should be transferred to a glass slide. Write the name, date of birth,  and date on the label on the slide and the slide should be submitted to the laboratory for examination. Since the female worms emerge on a sporadic basis, a series (4-6) of consecutive tapes should be collected to rule out an infection.
NOTE: If clear regular cellulose tape (do not use Magic tape) is not available, Pinworm collection paddles are available through Lab Customer Service (802) 847-5121,or they may be obtained from the UVMMC Main Campus outpatient lab.