Fibrin Clot Mistook as a Worm in the Intravenous Line

Abstract

There have been several reports of foreign bodies being discovered in the intravenous set. In this case, the patient complained that he found a worm in his intravenous line. It was later confirmed as a long, white fibrin deposit by pathologic examination. This happened even though there was a non-return valve in the intravenous line. Also, since there were few red blood cells in the deposit, it did not look like a blood clot. In cases like this, we suggest that physicians keep this possibility in mind to reassure their patients.

Ensuring patient safety: the importance of prompt pathological examination for foreign bodies in intravenous lines

“…Depending on the nature of the foreign body, patients could develop complications including phlebitis or pulmonary embolization, even from a minor particle entering the body intravenously via the IV line or fluid [ 2 , 3 ]. Therefore, we would like to share a relevant news story and a case report from 2020 and provide suggestions for effectively managing and responding to such incidents [ 4 ].…”

“…In a different case, the patient complained that there was a worm in the IV patient-controlled analgesia line [ 4 ]. The authors promptly retrieved the suspected material from the IV line and arranged for a pathological examination.…”

“…Depending on the nature of the foreign body, patients could develop complications including phlebitis or pulmonary embolization, even from a minor particle entering the body intravenously via the IV line or fluid [2,3]. Therefore, we would like to share a relevant news story and a case report from 2020 and provide suggestions for effectively managing and responding to such incidents [4].In this news story, the patient and their family noticed a black foreign material in the IV fluid bag after approximately 200 ml of a prescribed 1,000 ml fluid had been infused [1]. They complained to the assigned nurse, who explained that a rubber syringe stopper might have inadvertently entered the IV fluid bag.…”

“…The hospital replaced the fluid bag and IV line without conducting an analysis of the foreign material or seeking a more comprehensive explanation. This outraged the patient and their family, who reported the incident to the press.In a different case, the patient complained that there was a worm in the IV patient-controlled analgesia line [4]. The authors promptly retrieved the suspected material from the IV line and arranged for a pathological examination.…”