Alternative Names & Classifications:
Ascariasis (CLINICAL), Roundworm Infection (CLINICAL)
Description
Ascariasis is the most common human helminthic infection globally, transmitted via the fecal-oral route through ingestion of soil contaminated with parasite eggs. The hatched larvae uniquely migrate through the pulmonary circulation into the lungs before being coughed up and swallowed to mature in the intestines. It often affects children in regions with inadequate sanitation, severely impacting their nutritional status.