Enterobius vermicularis Related Acute Appendicitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

While the debate on the association between Enterobius vermicularis (E. vermicularis) and acute appendicitis has not been settled, a few case reports of this very rare encounter are beginning to come to light. E. vermicularis is one of the most common parasitic infections around the world, and acute appendicitis, on the other hand, is also a commonly encountered condition in general surgery. However, the association between these two conditions remains controversial. Here we present a case report of a young woman with appendicitis associated with E. vermicularis.

Enterobius vermicularis infection at time of appendicectomy: is it a neglected risk factor?

“…Appendicitis typically occurs secondary to appendiceal luminal obstruction. 4 Obstruction of the appendiceal lumen results in stasis, bacterial overgrowth, inflammation, and infection. 4 In severe cases of appendicitis the appendix may become ischaemic or perforate as a consequence of luminal obstruction.…”

“…4 Obstruction of the appendiceal lumen results in stasis, bacterial overgrowth, inflammation, and infection. 4 In severe cases of appendicitis the appendix may become ischaemic or perforate as a consequence of luminal obstruction. 4 Laparoscopic appendicectomy remains the mainstay of treatment for acute appendicitis despite emerging data for antibiotic only treatment.…”

“…4 In severe cases of appendicitis the appendix may become ischaemic or perforate as a consequence of luminal obstruction. 4 Laparoscopic appendicectomy remains the mainstay of treatment for acute appendicitis despite emerging data for antibiotic only treatment. 1,4 The literature recognises aetiologies such as tumours and faecoliths as cause for appendicitis.…”

“…It is one of the most prevalent helminth infections globally affecting more than 200 million individuals, with a prevalence cited as up to 38% in specific endemic populations. [3][4][5] Enterobius vermicularis retains an increased prevalence within lower socioeconomic and human development index (HDI) regions. 1,4 Whilst Australia has an overall high HDI it has significant variability in health literacy and socioeconimics.…”

“…[3][4][5] Enterobius vermicularis retains an increased prevalence within lower socioeconomic and human development index (HDI) regions. 1,4 Whilst Australia has an overall high HDI it has significant variability in health literacy and socioeconimics. 6,7 International Surgery Journal | March 2024 | Vol 11 | Issue 3 Page 546 Subsequently, a high HDI and socioeconomic status is not necessarily reflected within all Australian communities.…”