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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
09:37
Helminth Collection and Identification from Wildlife
Published on: December 14, 2013
A turtle in the belly: helminthoma
Leo Francis Tauro1, J J S Martis, B R Hegde
1Department of General Surgery, Fr. Muller Medical College Hospital, Kankanady, Mangalore, India. drlftauro@rediffmail.com
Summary
A helminthoma, an inflammatory bowel tumor caused by parasitic worms, presents a diagnostic challenge. This condition, often described as "a turtle in the belly," is prevalent in specific regions globally.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Parasitology
- Pathology
Background:
- A helminthoma is an inflammatory bowel tumor resulting from intestinal worm or larva penetration.
- This condition commonly affects the cecum or colon.
- Prevalence is high in regions with common intestinal worm infestations, such as West and East Africa and parts of South America.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case of helminthoma presenting a diagnostic dilemma.
- To highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges of helminthoma.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing a patient with helminthoma.
- Review of relevant literature on helminthoma diagnosis and management.
Main Results:
- The case illustrates the diagnostic difficulties associated with helminthoma.
- Villagers in endemic areas have descriptive terms for the condition, like 'a turtle in the belly.'
Conclusions:
- Helminthoma is a significant cause of inflammatory bowel tumors in endemic areas.
- Accurate diagnosis of helminthoma can be challenging, requiring awareness of its presentation and geographic distribution.
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