Persistent Itching Leads to Shocking Diagnosis: 37-Year-Old Woman Found Infected With Five Types of Parasites
After suffering from prolonged itching, a 37-year-old woman sought specialized medical examination and was diagnosed with infections from five different parasites: threadworms, dog and cat roundworms, giant liver flukes, dog tapeworms, and blood flukes.
Recently, the Hải Dương Tropical Diseases Hospital in Hải Phòng reported this unusual case involving patient Đ.T.H (37, from Hồng Châu commune, Hải Phòng), who came to the hospital for an in-depth examination due to suspected liver damage.
Reviewing her medical history, doctors found that during a previous checkup at a local clinic, an ultrasound revealed that her liver tissue appeared coarse. She was then referred to a specialized hospital for further evaluation.
The patient occasionally experienced widespread itching accompanied by hives. Each episode lasted about one to two weeks and recurred every few months. During these episodes, she usually purchased anti-allergy medication on her own. After two to three days, symptoms would subside, so she did not seek specialist care. Notably, she had previously been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, though the exact cause had never been identified.
Following comprehensive examinations and testing, doctors discovered that she was simultaneously infected with five types of parasites: threadworms, dog and cat roundworms, giant liver flukes, dog tapeworms, and blood flukes. This is the first recorded case at Hải Dương Tropical Diseases Hospital of a patient infected with five parasites at the same time.
According to Dr. Trần Phương Nam, Deputy Head of the General Internal Medicine Department, this is a rare and unusual case that highlights the importance of consulting the appropriate specialists when the body shows persistent abnormal symptoms without a clear cause.
Among the detected parasites, the giant liver fluke is particularly concerning due to its ability to cause long-term liver damage. If not detected and treated promptly, the infection can progress silently, potentially leading to liver fibrosis and other serious complications.
From this case, doctors advise that anyone experiencing prolonged itching, recurrent hives, digestive disorders, pain or discomfort in the liver area, or abnormal liver findings on ultrasound — even without alcohol use or viral hepatitis — should visit medical facilities with hepatology and parasitology specialties for thorough examination and advanced testing.
