Hookworm infestation in the biliary tract: a case report.
Saroj Kumar Gupta1, Sangita Sharma2, Rabin Hamal3
1Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Maharajgunj, Nepal. technosaroj1@gmail.com.
Journal of Medical Case Reports
|May 29, 2026
Summary
Hookworm infestation of the biliary tract is rare but can cause obstructive illness. Early endoscopic examination and antiparasitic treatment are crucial for managing this unusual parasitic infection.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus) are intestinal nematodes causing anemia.
- Biliary tract parasitic infections can lead to cholangitis, pancreatitis, and obstruction.
- Hookworm infestation of the biliary system is exceptionally rare and undocumented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of biliary tract obstruction caused by hookworm.
- To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of atypical parasitic infestations.
Main Methods:
- A case of a 53-year-old female presenting with obstructive jaundice symptoms.
- Diagnostic workup included liver function tests, imaging (ERCP), and identification of a live worm in the common bile duct.
- Treatment involved endoscopic removal and antiparasitic therapy (Metronidazole).
Main Results:
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) revealed choledocholithiasis and a live hookworm in the biliary tract.
- The patient experienced symptom resolution and improved liver function tests after antiparasitic treatment.
- Eosinophil counts normalized post-treatment, confirming successful eradication.
Conclusions:
- Hookworms can manifest as a cause of biliary obstruction, despite their rarity in this location.
- Prompt endoscopic intervention and targeted antiparasitic therapy are vital for favorable outcomes.
- Clinicians should consider unusual parasitic etiologies in unexplained biliary disorders.
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