What is the appropriate treatment for pinworm infection?

The appropriate treatment for pinworm infection, commonly caused by Enterobius vermicularis, is indeed albendazole or mebendazole, and it is recommended to treat the entire household. This is because pinworm infections are highly contagious, with the eggs being easily spread through contaminated hands, clothing, bedding, or surfaces. Treating all family members helps to effectively eradicate the infection, preventing reinfection and a cycle of transmission.

Albendazole and mebendazole act by inhibiting glucose uptake in the adult worms, leading to their death, and both are well-tolerated and effective. Although pyrantel pamoate can provide symptomatic relief, it is not as effective in eliminating the infection compared to the previously mentioned treatments. Metronidazole is not indicated for pinworm infections, as it is primarily used to treat anaerobic bacterial infections and protozoal infections rather than helminthic infections. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are also inappropriate, as they are designed to treat fungal infections, not helminth infestations.