Rare gastrointestinal presentation of enterobius vermicularis: Anal abscess

Abstract

Enterobius vermicularis (E. vermicularis) is a human roundworm that does not have an intermediate host. It is a common parasite worldwide, especially in temperate regions and in developing countries. It lives in the human large intestine, particularly in the cecum lumen, appendix, rectum area, and rarely in the last parts of the small intestine and causes enterobiasis (oxyuriasis). Likewise, it is usually transmitted by close contact between infected and non-infected individuals and swallowing or inhalation of eggs. Primary school children are the most likely to be affected. It is generally asymptomatic, the most common symptom is itching in the perianal area. Sometimes it can be complicated by extraintestinal involvement. In countries with high prevalence, such as our country, oxyuriasis should be kept in mind as a rare cause of gastrointestinal involvement including anal abscess. The aim of the case report was to present an extremely rare case of anal abscess caused by E. vermicularis as well as to review the literature.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article.

The authors received no financial support for the research and/or authorship of this article.