# Gallbladder ascariasis in Kabul—focus on ultrasound and conservative therapy: a case report

## TL;DR

A three-year-old girl in Kabul was diagnosed with a rare case of gallbladder ascariasis and successfully treated with anti-helminthic therapy.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the use of ultrasound and conservative treatment for a rare form of ascariasis in the gallbladder.

## Key findings

- Ultrasound confirmed a live Ascaris worm in the patient's gallbladder.
- Anti-helminthic therapy resolved the symptoms without surgical intervention.
- The case illustrates acalculous cholecystitis caused by gallbladder ascariasis.

## Abstract

The most frequent human intestinal nematode is Ascaris lumbricoides. Ascariasis is one of the most prevalent intestinal illnesses in underdeveloped nations, including Afghanistan. It affects over 25% of the world’s population and causes about 20 000 fatalities annually due to its unfavorable clinical course. In endemic locations, 50%–60% of pediatric admissions to surgical emergency rooms are caused by A. lumbricoides. Due to the cystic duct’s narrowness and tortuousness, migration of the worm to the gallbladder is less common than migration to the bile duct. When it does, acalculous cholecystitis is triggered. We report the case of a three year old girl presenting with abdominal pain, fever and vomiting. Laboratory tests revealed eosinophilia and elevated liver enzymes. Ultrasound examination identified a live Ascaris worm in the gallbladder. The patient was treated successfully with anti-helminthic therapy, resulting in symptom resolution.