ascariasis

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is generally due to Ascaris lumbricoides. It is the commonest worm infestation in man.

This worm is transmitted via the faecal-oral route. The adult worm lives in the upper small intestine and releases eggs which pass in the faeces. Once ingested, the larvae are released and penetrate the wall of the intestine. The larvae then migrate to the lungs where they are coughed up and swallowed.

Possible complications include:

• anaemia
• appendicitis
• common bile duct obstruction - usually too big to enter the biliary passages
• pancreatitis

There are an estimated 1000 million cases worldwide.

Treatment is with mebendazole.