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Liver abscess due to ascarid in Iran
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|March 1, 1975
Summary
A rare case of liver abscess caused by the Ascaris parasite was found in Iran. This discovery is significant given the high prevalence of Ascaris infection in the region.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Ascariasis is a common helminthic infection globally, particularly prevalent in regions like Iran.
- Liver abscesses are typically caused by bacterial or amoebic infections.
- Ascaris lumbricoides is a common intestinal roundworm, with rare extra-intestinal manifestations.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male patient in northwest Iran presented with symptoms requiring laparotomy.
- Surgical exploration revealed a deep 3-cm liver abscess.
- The abscess was directly attributed to an adult Ascaris worm.
Findings:
- The liver abscess was associated with secondary complications including exogenous cholecystitis, pericholecystitis, and adhesions.
- The causative agent identified was an adult Ascaris.
- This represents the first reported case of an Ascaris-induced liver abscess in Iran.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for Ascaris to cause severe, extra-intestinal complications like liver abscesses.
- Underscores the importance of considering parasitic causes in liver abscess diagnosis, even in endemic areas.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness and potentially revised diagnostic or treatment guidelines for ascariasis in Iran.