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[Appendiceal disease caused by Enterobius vermicularis. Presentation of 3 cases]

J M Rueda Pérez1, M Cabello Rodríguez, M Somaza de Saint-Palais

  • 1Servicio de Cirugía General, Hospital Militar Central Gómez Ulla, Madrid.

Insights

Pinworm infections can cause acute appendicitis in children. Histopathology revealed Enterobius vermicularis and chronic inflammation in surgically removed appendices, highlighting a potential cause for abdominal pain.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Acute abdominal pain is a common pediatric presentation requiring prompt diagnosis.
  • Appendicitis is a frequent surgical emergency in children.
  • Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is a common intestinal parasite in children.

Observation:

  • Three pediatric cases with acute abdominal pain were evaluated.
  • Clinical diagnosis indicated acute appendicitis.
  • Emergency appendectomy was performed for all patients.

Findings:

  • Histopathological examination of the appendix revealed Enterobius vermicularis.
  • Chronic inflammatory changes were observed in the appendiceal tissue.
  • Pinworm infestation was identified as a contributing factor to appendicitis in these cases.

Implications:

  • This suggests pinworm infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children.
  • Accurate histopathological analysis is crucial for identifying parasitic causes of appendicitis.
  • Understanding this association can guide pediatricians and surgeons in managing abdominal pain in children.

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