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Human ectopic fascioliasis in the cecum
The American Journal of Surgical Pathology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Ectopic Fasciola spp. infection in the cecal wall is rare. This case highlights a migrating fluke causing an inflammatory mass mistaken for colon cancer.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
- Human Pathology
Background:
- Fascioliasis is a parasitic disease caused by liver flukes of the genus Fasciola.
- While typically affecting the liver and bile ducts, ectopic infections can occur.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old Korean woman presented with gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and epigastric tenderness.
- A palpable mass in the right iliac fossa led to a clinical suspicion of colon carcinoma.
- The patient underwent a cecal resection for the suspected malignancy.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination revealed the mass was an inflammatory reaction.
- Numerous tracts within the inflamed tissue were identified as being made by a migrating fluke, identified as Fasciola sp.
- This represents an ectopic infection within the cecal wall.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses, even in unusual locations.
- Accurate diagnosis of ectopic Fasciola spp. infection is crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions for misdiagnosed conditions.
- Further research into the epidemiology and clinical presentation of ectopic fascioliasis is warranted.