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Fasciolopsiasis presenting as intestinal perforation: a case report
Hemanga K Bhattacharjee1, Devendra Yadav, Deepak Bagga
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Tropical Gastroenterology : Official Journal of the Digestive Diseases Foundation
|July 24, 2009
Summary
A rare case of intestinal perforation caused by Fasciolopsis buski (fasciolopsiasis) in a 10-year-old boy highlights the severe complications of this zoonotic trematode infection in Southeast Asia.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Fasciolopsis buski (fasciolopsiasis) is a zoonotic trematode infection prevalent in Southeast Asia.
- Heavy infestations can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including pain, diarrhea, ulceration, obstruction, and potentially fatal outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an extraordinary case of intestinal perforation secondary to heavy Fasciolopsis buski infestation.
- To emphasize the diagnostic and management considerations for this rare presentation of fasciolopsiasis.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation of a 10-year-old boy from India.
- Clinical history, diagnostic findings, and treatment of severe fasciolopsiasis leading to intestinal perforation.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms indicative of a heavy Fasciolopsis buski infestation.
- The infestation resulted in a critical complication: intestinal perforation.
- This presentation is highly unusual for fasciolopsiasis.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal perforation, though rare, is a possible severe complication of heavy Fasciolopsis buski infestation.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing intestinal perforation in cases of fasciolopsiasis.
- Awareness of this atypical presentation is important for clinicians in endemic areas.
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