What specimen is commonly used to diagnose enterobiasis?

The diagnosis of enterobiasis, which is caused by the pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis), is most effectively achieved through perianal swabs. This method involves collecting samples from the area around the anus, where the female pinworm typically lays her eggs during the night. The presence of eggs in the collected swab confirms the infection.

While stool samples are often used in diagnosing other types of parasitic infections, pinworm eggs are not typically found in stool; instead, they are laid on the skin around the anus. Blood samples are not relevant for diagnosing enterobiasis, as the infection does not produce antibodies that would be detected in the bloodstream. Urine samples are also unrelated, as the pinworm lifecycle does not involve the urinary system. Thus, perianal swabs are uniquely suited to this specific diagnosis, making them the most appropriate choice.