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Ascariasis mimicking an acute abdomen
1Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Ascariasis, a roundworm infection common in children, can mimic surgical abdomen symptoms. Prompt diagnosis via examination and radiographs led to successful non-surgical treatment in two pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ascariasis (Ascaris lumbricoides infection) is a prevalent helminthic disease, particularly in children worldwide.
- Clinical presentation of ascariasis can be nonspecific, often leading to misdiagnosis.
- Complicated ascariasis can present with symptoms mimicking acute surgical abdomen, posing a diagnostic challenge.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases presented to the emergency department with signs and symptoms suggestive of a surgical abdomen.
- Initial clinical presentation included abdominal pain and other signs consistent with acute surgical conditions.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was achieved through physical examination and radiographic imaging.
- Neither patient required surgical intervention for their condition.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering ascariasis in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen in children.
- Suggests that non-surgical management is often effective for pediatric ascariasis presenting as acute abdomen.
- Emphasizes the need for emergency physicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for parasitic infections.