Incidental thoracic, hepatic and peritoneal calcifications: a case of Pentastomiasis

Abstract

Incidental findings are not uncommon in radiology. In this case, although the incidental findings could be described as an Aunt Minnie, the patient underwent multiple investigations due to the rarity of the causative parasite. The current literature concerning Pentastomiasis suggests it may become more common in future. Our hope is that this case report will help future patients who present with the radiological pattern described to be more rapidly diagnosed and reassured.

Disseminated Armillifer armillatus Infestation: A Rare Cause of Acute Abdomen

“…There are 13 genera and 43 species, of which five ( Porocephalus crotali, Porocephalus subulifer, Armillifer armillatus, Armillifer moniliformis, and Linguatula serrata) are known to be possible parasites of man [9,10]. Of these, Armillifer armillatus has been most frequently encountered and has been the subject of several articles describing the radiographic and other aspects of the disease [11][12][13].…”

“…There are 13 genera and 43 species, of which five ( Porocephalus crotali , Porocephalus subulifer , Armillifer armillatus , Armillifer moniliformis , and Linguatula serrata ) are known to be possible parasites of man [ 9 , 10 ]. Of these, Armillifer armillatus has been most frequently encountered and has been the subject of several articles describing the radiographic and other aspects of the disease [ 11 - 13 ]. The adult measuring about 250 µm in length, is found living in the trachea and lungs of pythons and other African snakes; the nymphal form is found in the lion, mandrill, giraffe, and African hedgehog, as well as in other wild and domestic animals in tropical Africa.…”

“…They are always multiple and are seen more often in the upper abdomen than in the lower abdomen or thorax. They are more commonly seen in the right upper quadrant, either on or below the peritoneal surface of the liver [ 13 ]. However, they may be seen as scattered calcifications anywhere in the peritoneal cavity around the spleen, mesentery, lungs and pleura, and even rarely in the scrotum.…”