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Intraperitoneal ascariasis
P L Rao1, G Satyanarayana, A Venkatesh
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kasturba Medical College & Hospital, Manipal, South India.
Insights
Peritoneal ascariasis, a rare complication of roundworm infestation, can occur in children. Suspect this condition in children with peritonitis or abdominal masses, especially if they show signs of ascarial infestation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ascariasis is a common intestinal nematode infection worldwide.
- Intraperitoneal ascariasis is a rare but serious complication.
- Ascariasis can lead to various abdominal pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of intraperitoneal ascariasis in children.
- To highlight the clinical presentation and management of this condition.
- To increase awareness among clinicians regarding this rare presentation of ascariasis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series.
- Review of medical records of children diagnosed with intraperitoneal ascariasis.
- Clinical and radiological findings were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Seven children with intraperitoneal ascariasis were identified.
- One child experienced two episodes of the condition.
- Four cases presented with free worms in the peritoneal cavity; others had peritoneal abscesses containing roundworms.
Conclusions:
- Intraperitoneal ascariasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric peritonitis or inflammatory abdominal masses.
- Early suspicion and diagnosis are crucial for timely management.
- Evidence of ascarial infestation is a key indicator for suspecting this condition.
Abstract:
Seven children with intraperitoneal ascariasis are reported. One of them had two episodes. There were four instances of free worms in the peritoneal cavity, whereas others had peritoneal abscesses containing round worms. It is suggested that peritoneal ascariasis should be suspected whenever a child presents with peritonitis and/or an inflammatory abdominal mass having evidence of ascarial infestation.