Pinworm infections in laboratory rodents: a review

Abstract

The important and common oxyurids which affect laboratory rodents- Syphacia spp., Aspiculuris tetraptera and Passalurus ambiguus-are discussed and reviewed. Their life histories, pathogenicity and immunity are examined, and mention is made of the influence of age, sex, strain and host status on infection. The importance of using worm-free animals in experimental work is stressed, and guidance is given on diagnosis and control.