Pronunciation: [ˌɒksɪjˈuːɹɪd] (IPA) 
The proper spelling of the word "oxyurid" is /ɑksɪˈjʊərɪd/. The first syllable "oxy" is pronounced as /ɑksɪ/, with a short "a" sound and a "k" sound. The second syllable "ur" is pronounced as /ˈjʊər/, with a long "u" sound and a soft "r" sound. The final syllable "id" is pronounced as /ɪd/, with a short "i" sound and a "d" sound. This term is used in biology to refer to a family of parasitic nematodes.
Oxyurid refers to a group of parasitic roundworms that belong to the class Oxyurida within the phylum Nematoda. These worms are commonly referred to as pinworms or threadworms and primarily infect the intestines of vertebrates, including humans. The term "oxyurid" is derived from the genus Oxyuris, which is the type genus of this group.
Oxyurids are characterized by their small size, averaging between 2 to 12 millimeters in length. They possess elongated cylindrical bodies with a pointed anterior end and a tapered posterior end. These worms have a transparent cuticle covering the outer surface of their bodies and possess a distinct mouth surrounded by a muscular oral apparatus.
The life cycle of oxyurids typically involves a direct transmission route, where the eggs of the female worm are deposited around the anus of the infected host. These eggs are then easily spread through various means, such as contaminated hands, bedding, or utensils. Once ingested, the eggs hatch in the small intestine, and the larvae mature into adult worms residing in the colon.
Infection by oxyurids can lead to a condition called enterobiasis, characterized by symptoms like anal itching, restless sleep, and occasional abdominal discomfort. The diagnostic method includes microscopic examination of the eggs or worms in stool samples or through the use of adhesive tape applied to the perianal region.
To prevent and treat oxyurid infections, good personal hygiene practices such as handwashing, regular changing of bedding, and proper toilet habits are essential. Medications, such as mebendazole or pyrantel pamoate, are commonly prescribed to eradicate the worm infestation.
A pinworm, Oxyuris vermicularis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "oxyurid" comes from the combination of two elements: "oxy" and "urid".
1. "Oxy": The term "oxy" derives from the Greek word "oxus", meaning "sharp" or "acid". In modern English, it is usually associated with the element "oxygen". In scientific terminology, "oxy-" typically refers to compounds or organisms related to oxygen or having sharp characteristics.
2. "Urid": The term "urid" refers to "a member of the family Oxyuridae", which is a family of parasitic nematodes (roundworms). This family includes the common human pinworm, Enterobius vermicularis. The family name "Oxyuridae" is derived from "oxy" as mentioned above (referring to sharpness) and the Latin suffix "-idae", commonly used for taxonomic families.
