The patient is a 55 year-old male undergoing a colonoscopy. He has had a history of vague abdominal discomfort but his colonoscopy was part of his routine workup related to a family history of colon cancer and a previous colonoscopy that resulted in the removal of two polyps.
While performing the colonoscopy small objects were seen adhering to the intestinal wall by the gastroenterologist. Two of the objects were removed and placed in a sterile cup containing 10% buffered formalin. The cup was then sent to the laboratory for an identification of the objects removed. Below is a photo of the object that was removed and submitted for identification.
Can you answer the following:
- What is the identification of the object retrieved and submitted for identification?
- Symptoms of infection are directly related to the organism burden. In small children what is a complication due to a heavy infection?
- The ova/eggs produced by this organism have a distinct shape. How would you describe them?
- Adults are generally found in what part of the intestine?
- Is this considered a nematode, trematode, or cestode?
- What is the treatment of choice?
Discussion to follow!