Ascaris lumbricoides and perforation of the ileum: a critical review

Abstract

Ileal perforation due to typhoid bacilli is the commonest cause of peritonitis in the Tropics. Perforation due to Ascaris lumbricoides is rare. Three cases of ileal perforation believed to be due to A. lumbricoides are presented and the evidence critically reviewed. It is suggested that signs of heavy infestation with A. lumbricoides make a diagnosis of intestinal perforation more likely in a patient with an acute abdomen.