(Science: biology, microbiology, zoology) small nematode, enterobius vermicularis, that is responsible for intestinal infection in humans.
It appears as a small thread-like worm approximately 3-5mm in length.
Common symptoms include anal itching that is worse at night when the female worm migrates to the anus to lay its eggs.
thin, white, thread-like worms may be visible at the anal opening or in the stools. The tape test can be performed by placing the sticky side of the tape across the anal opening for several seconds. The tape is then transferred to a glass slide where eggs may be seen through the microscope.