[Intestinal perforation by Ascaris lumbricoides]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Parasitology
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Intestinal perforation is a rare but serious complication.
• Ascariasis, caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, is a common human parasitic infection, particularly in endemic areas.
• Concurrent tibial fractures and acute abdominal emergencies present diagnostic and management challenges.

Observation:

• An adult patient admitted for a right tibial fracture presented with acute abdominal symptoms.
• Surgical exploration revealed a small intestinal perforation.
• The perforation was directly attributed to Ascaris lumbricoides.

Findings:

• Successful surgical repair of the small intestinal perforation.
• Uneventful postoperative recovery following the intervention.
• Review of global and national literature on similar cases.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen, even in trauma patients.
• Underscores the need for prompt surgical intervention in cases of intestinal perforation.
• Contributes to the understanding of rare complications of ascariasis in surgical settings.