Devpriyo Pal1, Narayan Pandit2
BACKGROUND
Ascariasis is a type of roundworm infestation caused by the helminth Ascaris
lumbricoides. In spite of advancements in the diagnosis and management of
ascariasis, it remains one of the commonest infections in the world, especially in
the tropical and subtropical countries, causing both acute and chronic illnesses.
Ultrasound offers a quick and non-invasive way to diagnose ascariasis of the
intestine and hepatobiliary system. In this study we have described the imaging
appearance of ascariasis through a series of cases and demonstrated key imaging
characteristics according to location.
METHODS
This is an institution based observational and descriptive study. A cross-sectional
study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis of North Bengal Medical
College & Hospital for a period of 15 months (Oct 2018 - Jan 2020). This study
was conducted among the patients who were referred to the Department of
Radiodiagnosis for evaluation of abdominal symptoms.
RESULTS
Intestinal and extra-intestinal ascaris worms have a typical appearance which is
easily identifiable in on ultrasound, but diagnostic confidence is affected by several
factors related to the patient, worms and the ultrasound technique.
CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound is a rapid, inexpensive and easily available modality with a high success
rate in diagnosing ascariasis and its complications. It is important to be aware of
the characteristic appearance of ascaris in the intestines and the hepatopancreato-
biliary tree and it must be remembered that the typical appearance is
grossly affected by several factors such as the number, whether living or not as
well as the luminal distension of the organ.
