Answer to Case 553

July 21, 2019
Answer to Parasite Case of the Week 553: Ascaris lumbricoides

The overall appearance and large size of this nematode are strongly suggestive of A. lumbricoides, given that this is a human stool specimen. As Sam mentioned, examining the anterior end for the characteristic 3 fleshy lips common to all ascarids, and examination of the stool for eggs would allow for confirmation of the identification.

Here are some images from other cases to show these characteristic features:
Adult with 3 fleshy lips from Case of the Week 479:
Mammillated and decorticated eggs from Case of the Week 550

Thanks to all that wrote in with the answer, and to Dr. Poloni for donating this case!

Share this

Related Posts

Previous
Next Post »