Threadworms is sometimes misdiagnosed as Crohns’ Disease

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Crohns’ Disease, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Threadworms.

Threadworm or pinworm is an infection by enterobius vermicularis parasite that occurs commonly in children. Symptoms of infection include an itchy bottom that is worse at night, reduced appetite, malaise, adult worms can be seen in the faeces and eggs may be seen around the anus. As the parasite lives in the GI tract it can mimic conditions such as Crohns disease.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Itchy bottom especially at night, worms seen in faeces, eggs seen clinging to the anal skin, irritability and behavioural changes, reduced appetite, feeling mildly unwell, inflammation of the vagina

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

Further reference: