Infectious Disease Practice Test

In the context of treating a confirmed case of pinworm infection, both albendazole and mebendazole are recognized as the first-line treatment options. These medications are effective because they work by inhibiting microtubule synthesis in the parasites, which leads to their eventual death.

Albendazole is often preferred due to its wider spectrum of activity against various helminths, while mebendazole is specifically effective against pinworms. Both drugs have a favorable safety profile and are well-tolerated, making them practical choices for treatment.

Pyrantel pamoate is another medication that can be used to treat pinworm infections; however, it is not considered the first-line treatment. It functions by causing paralysis of the parasites, allowing them to be expelled from the body. While effective, its mechanism and efficacy profile may not be as robust as that of albendazole and mebendazole, especially in terms of preventing reinfection.

Therefore, the correct answer encompasses both albendazole and mebendazole as they are the primary treatments recommended for pinworm infections, highlighting their importance in addressing this common parasitic issue effectively.