Which organism is commonly referred to as pinworm?

The organism referred to as pinworm is Enterobius vermicularis. This parasitic worm is known for causing an infection commonly called enterobiasis, which predominantly occurs in children. The characteristic symptoms include anal itching, irritability, and sometimes insomnia due to the nocturnal activity of the female worms as they lay eggs around the anal region.

Enterobius vermicularis is a small, white, and thread-like worm, which is quite distinct from the other organisms mentioned. Ascaris lumbricoides, for instance, is a large roundworm that primarily affects the intestines and is known for causing ascariasis. Trichinella spiralis is a different type of roundworm that leads to trichinosis, primarily associated with undercooked pork. Staphylococcus aureus, on the other hand, is a type of bacteria, not a worm, and is often responsible for a variety of infections in humans.

Understanding the specific characteristics and symptoms of Enterobius vermicularis helps clarify why this organism is commonly identified as the pinworm, distinguishing it from the others in the list.