Sudden Death due to Ascariasis Infestation: An Unrecognized Danger

Abstract

Ascaris Lumbricoides or common round worm is the most common of human helminths and is distributed worldwide. Infection is more prevalent in the low socioeconomic areas locations with poor hygienic habits like lack of regular hand washing and proper disposal of human excretions. Ascariasis causes both intestinal and extra intestinal problems but very rarely leads to death. Most patients infected with Ascaris have a chronic disease course and remain asymptomatic for years or present with only mild symptoms.We report a case of an adolescent boy who was admitted with abdominal pain and passed away next day. The autopsy was conducted and it was found that boy died due to intestinal obstruction due to the ascaris infestation. The authors aim to highlight the risk of mortality due to ascaris infestation. The susceptible population should be educated and screened so as to prevent any further complications and avoidable fatality. The authors also aid to increase the awareness amongst autopsy surgeons about the presence of this hidden pathological fnding in sudden undiagnosed death.