PARASITES Report
PARASITES Report
PARASITES Report
Ascaris lumbricoides
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By:
Taha Jasim
INTRODUCTION:
Ascaris parasites live in the intestine and Ascaris eggs are passed in the feces
(poop) of infected people. If an infected person defecates outside (for
example, near bushes, in a garden, or in a field), or if the feces of an infected
person are used as fertilizer, eggs are deposited on soil. The eggs can then
mature into a form of the parasite that is infective. Ascariasis is caused by
ingesting eggs. This can happen when hands or fingers that have contaminated
dirt on them are put in the mouth, or by consuming vegetables or fruits that
have not been carefully cooked, washed, or peeled.
DIAGNOSIS:
In heavy infestations, it's possible to find worms after cough or vomit. The
worms can come out of other body openings, such as your mouth or nostrils.
And there’s some tests to do if symptoms are found:
Stool tests
To diagnose ascariasis, the doctor will examine the stool for the tiny
(microscopic) eggs and larvae. But eggs won't appear in stool until at least 40
days after you're infected. And if you're infected with only male worms, you
won't have eggs.
Blood tests
Imaging tests
X-rays. If you're infested with worms, the mass of worms may be visible in
an X-ray of the abdomen. In some cases, a chest X-ray can reveal the larvae
in the lungs.
Ultrasound. An ultrasound may show worms in the pancreas or liver. This
technology uses sound waves to create images of internal organs.
CT scans or MRIs. Both types of tests create detailed images of the internal
structures, which can help your doctor detect worms that are blocking ducts
in the liver or pancreas. CT scans combine X-ray images taken from many
angles. MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field. [3]
RISK FACTORS:
Geographic Distribution
The geographic distributions of Ascaris lumbricoides are worldwide in
areas with warm, moist climates and are widely overlapping. Infection occurs
worldwide and is most common in tropical and subtropical areas where
sanitation and hygiene are poor.
Medications
Anti-parasite medications are the first line of treatment against ascariasis. The
most common are:
Albendazole (Albenza)
Ivermectin (Stromectol)
Mebendazole
These medications, taken for one to three days, kill the adult worms. Side
effects include mild abdominal pain or diarrhea.
Surgery
1264.