Hookworm infestation as unexpected cause of recurrent pancreatitis

Am J Emerg Med. 2014 Nov;32(11):1435.e3-4. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2014.03.046. Epub 2014 Apr 3.

Abstract

Parasite infestation is still associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Hookworm infestation is a very rare cause of pancreatitis. This parasitic infestation might be asymptomatic. Acute pancreatitis as a result of the hookworms migrating into the ampulla of Vater with chronic inflammation was a very rare complication. Were port a case of hookworm infestation that was associated with significant complication of recurrent pancreatitis. The patient was treated with mebendazole. He was asymptomatic and had gained weight at the 3-month follow-up. Our case demonstrates that pancreatitis secondary to hookworm infection can occur and may resolve after anthelmintic treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Anthelmintics / therapeutic use*
  • Hookworm Infections / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pancreatitis / drug therapy*
  • Pancreatitis / parasitology*
  • Recurrence

Substances

  • Anthelmintics