A worm infestation of the small intestines generally associated with few or no symptoms

Cause

• Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm)

- spread by ingesting infective eggs from contaminated soil and uncooked food

Clinical features

• Patient may pass out live worms through the anus, nose or mouth

• Loeffler’s syndrome (pneumonitis)

• Heavy infestations may cause nutritional deficiencies

• Worms may also cause obstruction to bowel, bile duct, pancreatic duct or appendix

Differential diagnosis

• Other causes of cough
• Other causes of obstruction and nutritional deficiency

Investigations

Stool examination for Ascaris ova

Management
HC1

mebendazole 500mg single dose child <2yrs: 250mg

Prevention

• Proper faecal disposal
• Personal and food hygiene
• Regular deworming of children every 3-6 months