Guidelines
Worms (Helminth Infections)

Worms (Helminth Infections)

Heavy worm infestations in children result in poor absorption of essential nutrients and loss of blood from the gastrointestinal tract that may lead to anaemia, growth problems and diminished immune function

Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Poor weight gain

Other associated symptoms:

  • Round worms - Bloating abdomen, malaise, and recurrent cough (Löffler's syndrome)
  • Pinworms (threadworms) - Severe nocturnal anal itchiness, insomnia, restlessness, vaginitis, and salpingitis
  • Hookworms - Itching on the soles of the feet, bloody sputum, fever, rash, and blood in stool
  • Whipworms - Rectal prolapse

Useful investigations include:

  • Stool RE - Characteristic eggs seen on microscopy
  • USG Abdomen - For complications