Biliary Ascariasis

Biliary ascariasis: Ascaris migrates retrograde from small intestine into biliary tree → Oddi sphincter spasm; sudden upper abdominal pain. Mostly common bile duct; can enter intrahepatic ducts. Children/young adults, rural. Complications: cholangitis/liver abscess/hemobilia; cause of primary choledocholithiasis.

Common Symptoms

Severe pain; epigastric pain; abdominal pain; intrahepatic obstruction; groaning; nausea; cloud-like nails; Ascaris infection

Causes and Pathogenesis

Ascaris normally in mid/distal small intestine; drilling habit; triggers: fever/hunger/diarrhea/inadequate santonin. Usually 1 worm (rarely dozens/hundreds); rarely gallbladder. Sphincter spasm = pain. Retreat/complete entry = relief. Gut bacteria = cholangitis/liver abscess/hemobilia/sepsis/shock.

Treatment

Drug, supportive, surgical therapy

Preventive Measures

Health education; fecal sanitation; diet hygiene; no raw/cold food; periodic stool exam/deworming.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Gastroenterology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.