is a parasitic disease
caused by infection
of the large intestine
by a parasite whipworm
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Trichuriasis is common worldwide (in particular among countries with warm, humid climates) and primarily affects children, who may become infected if they ingest soil
contaminated with whipworm eggs
. The ingested eggs hatch, and the whipworm embeds in the wall of the large intestine (cecum
The main risk factor for infection is ingestion of eggs from soil contaminated with feces. Some outbreaks have been traced to contaminated vegetables (due to presumed soil contamination).
- Light infestations are frequently asymptomatic (have no symptoms).
- Heavy infestations may have bloody diarrhea.
- Long-standing blood loss may lead to iron-deficiency anemia.
- Rectal prolapse is seen in severe cases.
Signs and tests
A stool ova and parasites exam reveals the presence of typical whipworm eggs.
for 3 days is commonly used in symptomatic infections. Another anti-parasitic agent (albendazole
) can be used as an alternative therapy.
Full recovery is expected with treatment.
In severe cases, dehydration
and anemia from bloody diarrhea can occur. Rarely, rectal prolapse can also occur.
Improved facilities for feces disposal have decreased the incidence of whipworm. Handwashing before food handling, and avoiding ingestion of soil by thorough washing of food that may have been contaminated with egg-containing soil are other preventive measures.
- Whipworm Infection MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. US Federal Government public. domain. Update Date: 7/16/2004. Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.