A study of the structure and pathogenesis of ascaris and clonorchis stones.

Abstract

Calcium bilirubinate stones which may be closely related to parasitic infection have been frequently seen in Taiwan over the past two decades. The structure of parasitic stones, 5 ascaris stones and 4 clonorchis stones, were studies using a light microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The ascaris stone is formed by the deposition of calcium bilirubinate on either the dead worm or mixed with ova. Both origins can be detected by the study of ascaris stones. Ascaridic cholangitis also contributes to stones formation through the promotion of infected bile and increasing of floating debris. Amounts of mucus mixed with liver flukes and stones can also be found in the gallbladder. Clonorchis ova will mix with mucus and cause stone formation to proceed. Therefore, the clonorchis ova can be found in the matrix of gallstones from the clonorchiasis patient with gallstones. In the mean time, the dead liver fluke can also be a nidus of gallstone formation. It become evident that elements of ascaris or clonorchias such as ova or dead worm can participate directly in the development of the stone formation.