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Intestinal capillariasis diagnosed by endoscopic biopsy
Minsu Ha1, Dong-Ha Jun, Jung Ho Kim
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea.
Abstract:
Many new parasitic infections have emerged in Korea, with >35 new species appearing since the 1980s. Among them, Capillaria species are unique for contributing to morbidity in many countries as well as in Korea. Since the first reported case of a 41-year-old male patient diagnosed with intestinal capillariasis in 1991, a total of six cases have been reported thus far. In this case report, we present another imported case of intestinal capillariasis in Korea, in which a 42-year-old male patient presented with intractable diarrhea and weight loss. The diagnosis was confirmed by biopsy of the ileum. The pathognomonic radiographic presentation of a ribbon-like appearance in a small bowel series was crucial in raising an early suspicion of capillariasis and in deciding to perform diagnostic biopsy.
Insights
Intestinal capillariasis, a parasitic infection, is increasingly reported in Korea. This case highlights a new imported instance in a 42-year-old male, emphasizing diagnostic methods for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Emergence of new parasitic infections in Korea, with over 35 new species identified since the 1980s.
- Capillaria species are significant contributors to morbidity globally and in Korea.
- Six cases of intestinal capillariasis were reported in Korea prior to this study, with the first case in 1991.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an additional imported case of intestinal capillariasis in Korea.
- To discuss the diagnostic approach for intestinal capillariasis.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 42-year-old male with intractable diarrhea and weight loss.
- Diagnostic confirmation through ileum biopsy.
- Utilization of small bowel series radiography revealing a pathognomonic ribbon-like appearance.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms consistent with intestinal capillariasis.
- Ileum biopsy confirmed the diagnosis.
- Radiographic findings strongly suggested capillariasis, aiding in diagnostic decisions.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal capillariasis remains a rare but important parasitic infection to consider in Korea.
- Early suspicion based on radiographic findings is crucial for timely diagnosis.
- Diagnostic biopsy is essential for confirming intestinal capillariasis.
