What is transmitted when pinworm eggs are ingested or inhaled?

The transmission of pinworm eggs occurs through ingestion or inhalation. When a person comes into contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with pinworm eggs, they can inadvertently ingest these eggs or inhale them, leading to infection. The lifecycle of the pinworm involves the female laying eggs around the anus, which can then be transferred to hands or surfaces. When ingested, these eggs hatch in the intestines, allowing the infection to establish and cause symptoms such as itching and discomfort.

This understanding highlights why pinworm is the correct answer, as the question specifically prompts a focus on the pathogen directly linked to the described transmission route. In contrast, roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm are distinct types of helminths with different modes of transmission, often involving other routes like direct skin penetration or ingestion from contaminated food or water rather than through inhalation or oral ingestion of eggs.