Abstract :
Ascaris lumbricoides is the largest intestinal nematode, commonly known as the roundworm. Ascariasis is one of the most neglected tropical diseases worldwide. It is the most common parasitic infection, posing a significant public health problem, especially in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. An estimated 800 million to 1.2 billion people worldwide are affected by ascariasis. The life cycle of Ascaris lumbricoides is complex, with humans serving as the definitive host. The cycle begins with the ingestion of embryonated eggs through contaminated food, water, or poor hygienic practices. Most infections are asymptomatic, but chronic cases, especially in children, can cause malnutrition, growth delays, and cognitive impairments. The migrating worms can cause complications such as intestinal obstruction, perforation, cholangitis, and pancreatitis, which may require emergency surgery. Rarely, adult worms migrate to unusual sites such as the appendix, liver, ear, or nasal cavities, leading to respiratory distress and possible aspiration. The present report describes a rare case of a 4-year-old child with nasal discharge from the right nostril and a history of pica. During physical examination, a cord-like structure was removed from the right nostril and identified as Ascaris lumbricoides. This case highlights the unusual ectopic migration of intestinal nematodes.
Keyword :
Ascaris lumbricoides, Nematode, Nasal cavity, Pica.