Adult Ascaris lumbricoides worms may be present in the lungs where they can cause airway obstruction.
Mechanisms for reaching the lungs may include:
(1) migration up the from the upper GI tract while the patient sleeps
(2) bronchoenteric fistula
Risk factors for airway obstruction:
(1) multiple worms
(2) large worm
(3) inability to cough or clear throat
It may present with:
(1) cough
(2) oxygen desaturation
(3) tickling in throat
(4) airway obstruction
The worm(s) can be cleared by cough it up, airway suctioning or endoscopic removal.
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Specialty: Infectious Diseases, Pulmonology
