Abstract
Context: Ascaris lumbricoides is the second most common intestinal parasite world-wide and, although the infection can be asymptomatic, in some cases it can present with complications, such as acute pancreatitis. Case report: We describe the case of a 37-year-old man, with a history of travelling in Eastern countries who presented with Ascaris lumbricoides-induced acute pancreatitis mimicking a small pancreatic cancer, diagnosed during an upper EUS. The endoscopy revealeda roundworm floating in the duodenum; its endoultrasonographic appearance showed a diffuse inhomogeneous pattern, with hypoechoic echotexture, such as in acute pancreatitis. Microbiological examination of the worm revealed a 20 cm long Ascaris lumbricoides. Conclusion: In non endemic countries, acute pancreatitis induced by Ascaris lumbricoides is an unusual diagnosis, and should be suspected especially in patients with history of traveling in endemic areas.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 570-572 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Journal of the Pancreas |
Volume | 10 |
Issue number | 5 |
Publication status | Published - 2009 |
Keywords
- Acute necrotizing
- Ascaris lumbricoides
- Endosonography
- Pancreatitis
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Endocrinology
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
- Hepatology