Foreign Body Appendicitis Coexisting With Ascariasis in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Parasitology

Background:

• Ingested foreign bodies typically pass through the GI tract, but can cause appendicitis if lodged in the appendix.
• Ascariasis, caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, is a rare but serious cause of appendicitis.

Observation:

• An 8-year-old girl presented with acute appendicitis symptoms.
• She had a history of ingesting a metallic needle 7 months prior.
• An X-ray confirmed a radiopaque object in the right lower quadrant.

Findings:

• The patient underwent appendectomy and a metallic needle was found in the vermiform appendix.
• She also vomited a large Ascaris lumbricoides worm, indicating concurrent ascariasis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering both mechanical (foreign body) and parasitic etiologies in acute appendicitis.
• Effective diagnosis and management require thorough evaluation for unique causes of appendicitis.