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Ascaris lumbricoides: an unusual cause of shunt infection
J C Peter1, J Lamprecht, H Rode
1Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Insights
Delayed shunt infections in children can be caused by Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) complications. Prompt therapy for ascariasis is crucial for successful treatment of these rare enteric shunt infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Shunt infections are a serious complication in hydrocephalus management.
- Ascariasis, a common helminthic infection, can present with unusual abdominal complications.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of delayed shunt infection linked to Ascaris lumbricoides infestation are presented.
- One child had a shunt catheter protruding from the anus; the other had worms around shunt tubing.
Findings:
- Both patients experienced enteric shunt infections.
- Infections responded well to appropriate medical and surgical therapy.
- Ascaris lumbricoides was identified as the causative agent for shunt complications.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering parasitic infections in shunt complications, especially in endemic areas.
- Suggests a need for awareness among clinicians regarding atypical presentations of ascariasis.
- Emphasizes the efficacy of prompt diagnosis and treatment for both ascariasis and shunt infections.
Abstract:
Two cases of delayed shunt infection attributable to the abdominal complications of Ascaris lumbricoides infestation are reported. The first child presented with a peritoneal shunt catheter protruding through the anus and the second patient was found to have two live worms around the cephalic shunt tubing. Both had enteric shunt infections which responded well to therapy. The epidemiology and treatment of ascariasis are briefly discussed.