Askaridoz

Askaridoza description

Askaridoz – infection of worms, distributed worldwide, Although mainly found in tropical climates.

Ascaris lumbricoides – hookworm (round worm) parasite, which can reach up to 40 cm in length. Like most parasites, ascarids have a complex life cycle, that starts with ingesting their eggs. After hatching in the gut, immature form of the parasite penetrates the heart and lungs, causing pneumonia. Then they migrate into the throat, penetrate into the intestines again, and develop into adult worms. They lay eggs (240 000 on a worm day), that go with the feces, to start the cycle again, by ingestion of contaminated food or water inside the body.

Reasons ascaridosis

Ingestion of food or water, infected faeces, containing eggs of Ascaris.

Risk Factors ascaridosis

Factors, which increase the likelihood of ascariasis:

• Pre-school and primary school age;
• Travel to developing countries;
• Life in southern regions;
• Power in unsanitary conditions;
• Drinking dirty water.

Symptoms ascaridosis

These symptoms may be caused by other reasons. When present, seek medical advice.

• Pneumonia (dry cough and fever);
• Breathlessness;
• Abdominal cramps;
• Vomiting;
• Poor appetite, especially in children;
• The emergence of the worm through the mouth, nose, or rectum;
• Disease, caused by Ascaris:
  • Gallbladder disease;
  • Hepatophyma;
  • Pancreatitis;
  • Appendicitis;
  • Peritonitis.

Diagnosis ascaridosis

The doctor asks about the symptoms, availability of travel and medical history, and performs a physical exam. The patient may be referred to a gastroenterologist or a specialist in tropical diseases. Tests may include the following:

• Blood and urine tests;
• Fecal egg to find worms;
• X-ray or ultrasound examination of the intestine.

Treatment of ascariasis

Treatment depends on the amount and type of parasites. Treatment usually consists of the following:

• Medication – meʙendazol, Albendazole, pyrantel – effective drugs, who kill Ascaris;
• Endoscopy or surgery – intestinal obstruction due to the large number of worms may require surgery.

Prevention ascaridosis

To avoid penetration into the body of Ascaris, you must take the following steps:

• Avoid foods, prepared without proper sanitary precautions;
• Avoid water and other drinks from contaminated sources;
• Thoroughly wash vegetables, fruits and other foods to salads or use in its raw form;
• Wash hands when leaving the bathroom and toilet.