Colonic polyps with Ascaris Lumbricoides eggs

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Ascariasis, caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, is a prevalent parasitic infection, primarily affecting pediatric populations in developing regions.
• Clinical symptoms vary widely, from asymptomatic infections to severe complications like cholangitis and pancreatitis.
• Atypical presentations in adult patients are infrequent and often complicate diagnosis.

Observation:

• A 41-year-old male presented with nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, and altered bowel habits.
• Initial misdiagnosis as chronic gastritis occurred due to the nonspecific nature of the symptoms.
• Colonoscopy revealed multiple colonic polyps, which were unexpected given the patient's presentation.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination of the colonic polyps unexpectedly identified Ascaris eggs.
• This incidental finding led to the definitive diagnosis of ascariasis in an adult patient.
• The presence of Ascaris eggs within colonic polyps is an exceedingly rare occurrence.

Implications:

• This case underscores the necessity of considering parasitic infections, such as ascariasis, in adults presenting with persistent, unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
• It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive diagnostic workups, even when typical risk factors for ascariasis are absent.
• The findings contribute to a broader understanding of the diverse clinical manifestations and diagnostic considerations for ascariasis.