Ascaris lumbricoides infection: an unexpected cause of pancreatitis in a western Mediterranean country

Abstract

Ascaris lumbricoides is a nematode parasite, endemic in the Middle East and South America, especially in rural countries. Ascariasis infection causes about 20 000 deaths every year [1], usually as a result of intestinal occlusion, and it contributes to infant malnutrition [2]. Poor sanitation is usually the most important risk factor for infection, and women are more affected because progesterone plays a role in inducing Oddi’s sphincter relaxation, allowing the nematode to access the biliary duct [3]. Although not common in developed countries, ascariasis infection is increasingly likely to be encountered by clinicians because of the growing rates of travel to developing countries and increased migration.