Ascariasis causing Intestinal Obstruction in Children: Our Experience

ASCARIASIS CAUSING INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Introduction: Ascaris lumbricoides is a parasite that infests the human bowel, common in regions with poor sanitation. Usual treatment is anti-helminthics. Rarely, undiagnosed cases can present with surgical complications. Materials and Methods: We report a series of twenty seven cases of pediatric age group admitted with small bowel obstruction as a complication of Ascaris lumbricoides infestation. Results: The children presented with vomiting, abdominal pain and distention. On examination, most of them had tenderness associated with guarding of the abdominal wall. Diagnosis was made with plain abdominal radiographs and ultrasonography. All 27 cases were initially managed conservatively with 23 patients responding to conservative management and full resolution of symptoms while 4 patients did not respond to conservative management and underwent exploratory laparotomy. Conclusion: Ascariasis infestation is a common helminthic disease in developing countries with wide spectrum of clinical presentations, one of which can be an acute abdomen. Low threshold for intervention prevents high mortality and morbidity associated due to volvulus and toxemia.