Differential Diagnosis for Worms in Stool
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Enterobiasis (Pinworm Infection): This is the most common intestinal worm infection in the United States and other developed countries, particularly in children. The presence of worms in stool is a hallmark of this infection, which is caused by Enterobius vermicularis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ascariasis: Caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, this infection is common in areas with poor sanitation and can lead to the passage of large, roundworms in the stool.
- Trichuriasis: Infection with Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) can also result in the presence of worms in stool, although they are typically smaller and more difficult to detect than those of ascariasis.
- Hookworm Infection: Hookworms, such as Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, can infect humans and lead to the passage of worms in stool, though they are usually smaller and less commonly seen than other types of worms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Strongyloidiasis: While less common, Strongyloides stercoralis infection can lead to a condition known as hyperinfection syndrome in immunocompromised individuals, which can be life-threatening. Early detection is crucial.
- Taeniasis: Infections with tapeworms (e.g., Taenia saginata, Taenia solium) can have significant health implications, including the risk of cysticercosis with T. solium, which can affect the brain and other tissues.
Rare Diagnoses
- Anisakiasis: This is a rare infection caused by the ingestion of undercooked or raw fish containing Anisakis larvae. While it primarily causes gastrointestinal symptoms, it can occasionally lead to the passage of worms in stool.
- Capillariasis: Caused by Capillaria philippinensis, this infection is rare and typically associated with severe diarrhea and malabsorption, rather than the direct observation of worms in stool.
- Diphyllobothriasis: Infection with the fish tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum) is rare in humans but can occur through the consumption of undercooked fish. It may lead to the passage of proglottids (segments of the tapeworm) in stool.