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Enterobius vermicularis infestation leading to Meckel's diverticulitis in an adolescent boy: An extremely rare
Manupriya Sharma1, Rashmi Kaul1, Bal Chander1
1Department of Pathology, Dr. RPGMC, Kangra, Tanda, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Abstract:
Enterobius vermicularis is an intestinal nematode commonly affecting children worldwide. Its transmission is by feco-oral route. Meckel's diverticulitis due to E. vermicularis infestation is an extremely rare presentation. An 11-year-old boy presented with acute abdomen. During surgery inflamed Meckel's diverticulum (M.D) was seen. Histopathology examination of specimen revealed E. vermicularis. Till date, only one case of E. vermicularis infestation of M.D is reported around five decades ago. This histopathological confirmation is extremely important as the required treatment (Mebendazole) of the infected case along with household contacts can prevent the spread of infection and may avoid surgery in known contacts.
Insights
Enterobius vermicularis, a common pinworm, rarely causes Meckel
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Parasitology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is a common intestinal nematode, primarily infecting children globally via the feco-oral route.
- Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
- Inflammation of Meckel's diverticulum (Meckel's diverticulitis) is a known surgical emergency, but parasitic infestation is an exceedingly rare cause.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old boy presented with symptoms suggestive of acute abdomen.
- Surgical exploration revealed an inflamed Meckel's diverticulum.
- Histopathological examination of the resected specimen confirmed Enterobius vermicularis infestation within the Meckel's diverticulum.
Findings:
- This case represents one of the few documented instances of Enterobius vermicularis-induced Meckel's diverticulitis.
- The histopathological diagnosis was crucial for identifying the causative agent.
- Previous reports of this specific presentation are exceptionally scarce, with only one documented case in the past 50 years.
Implications:
- Accurate histopathological diagnosis of Enterobius vermicularis infestation is vital for appropriate treatment.
- Treatment with Mebendazole for the patient and household contacts can prevent further spread of the pinworm infection.
- Early diagnosis and treatment may potentially avert surgical intervention in affected individuals and their contacts.