Question
If a child exhibits symptoms such as delayed growth, loss of appetite, white spots and acne on the face, severe malnutrition, leg pain, pica, and night-time itching of the skin and anus, is it possible that they have an intestinal parasite infection? How should it be diagnosed and treated?
Answer
If a child shows the aforementioned symptoms, it is recommended to conduct a routine stool examination to confirm whether there is an intestinal parasite infection. It is quite common for two-year-old girls to be infected with parasites due to their incomplete establishment of hygiene habits. Consider administering anthelmintic medication for treatment. Generally, adults should also take anthelmintic medication twice a year, in spring and autumn, even if the child is not infected with parasites; taking anthelmintic medication will not have a negative impact on health and is beneficial without harm.