Sonographic Appearance of Different Presentations of Ascariasis in a Tertiary Care Centre in West Bengal - A Case Series and Review of Imaging Features
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. KEYWORDS Ultrasound, Ascariasis, Intestinal Obstruction, Cholecystitis, Cholangitis, Pancreatitis, Appendicitis