Live Worm Found in Australian Woman's Brain, First Case in the World
The worm was eight centimeters long and was moving when it was pulled.
An 8 cm (3 inch) long parasitic worm has been found in a woman's brain in Canberra Hospital last year. The findings were published by an Australian scientist on Tuesday. This is the first case in the world.
Scientists say this roundworm is most commonly seen in kangaroos and carpet pythons.
But recently, the live worm was found last year in a 64-year-old woman after undergoing surgery in the Australian capital.
The woman previously complained of stomach pain, forgetfulness, and depression.
The worm is called Ophidascaris robertsi. It was around eight centimeters long and was moving when it was pulled.
The surgeon, Hari Priya Bandi, was surprised at finding the parasite. The worm was actively wiggling.
The finding left the operating team feeling sick. This roundworm is not common to affect humans.
Infectious disease expert Sanjaya Senanayake described this incident as the first recorded Ophidascaris infection in humans.
It is also the first time a parasite has been found in the brain of any mammal, according to Euro News.
"It is never easy or desirable to be the first patient in the world for anything,"
The patient, a 64-year-old Australian woman, had memory problems. She also experienced depression for several months before being hospitalized.
Brain examination showed abnormalities. There are worm-like parasites identified through DNA testing. The parasite appears as a "strap" on brain scans.
The woman believed have got the disease while searching for plants near her home.
This plant may be contaminated with parasitic larvae from snake waste.
Senanayake says patients show extraordinary patience and bravery during the medical process.
The incident are published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.
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