Case #253 - June, 2009
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A 30-month-old child born in China was recently adopted by a family in the Netherlands. Three consecutive stool specimens were obtained for ova and parasite (O&P) testing, as part of the standard procedure during child adoption. There were no complaints. A formalin-ethyl acetate concentration and a water sedimentation method were performed. The following figures show what was observed on a wet mount prepared from the concentrate. Figure A-C were taken at 400x magnification; Figure D at 630x magnification. The objects were seen in moderate numbers in each concentrate and in all three stool specimens. The objects in Figure A measured approximately 24 to 37 micrometers. The objects in Figures B-D measured 73 to 85 micrometers in length by 44 micrometers in width. What is your diagnosis? Based on what criteria?
Figure A
Figure B
Figure C
Figure D
Case Answer
This was a case of ascariasis caused by Ascaris lumbricoides. Figure A showed a conglomerate of plant cells. Figures B-D showed infertile, decorticated Ascaris eggs (usual size range 85-95 micrometers long by 40-50 micrometers wide).
More on: Ascariasis
Images presented in the monthly case studies are from specimens submitted for diagnosis or archiving. On rare occasions, clinical histories given may be partly fictitious.
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