Ascaris Lumbricoides (Round Worm) in the Upper Airway of an Intubated Patient in the Intensive Care Unit: A Case Report (NMP)

Abstract

Infestation of the airway with Ascaris lumbricoides is very rare in the intubated patient. Migration of the worm from its natural habitat in the gastrointestitnal tract (GIT) through the oesophagus to the tracheal is possible. Serious airway obstruction occurs when the adult worm obstructs the bronchi or the vocal cords with attending sequaele. We hereby present a case of a 67 year old man with cerebrovascular accident (stroke) admitted and mechanically ventilated in the Intensive Care Unit. However, four days later, a 15cm long adult ascaris lumbricoides was found coming out of the oropharynx beside the cuffed endotrachael tube. We also highlight and discuss various clinical situations where ascaris lumbricoides has inhabited the airway documented in the literature.