Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the relationship between Enterobius vermicularis and appendicitis by determining the frequency of E. vermicularis in appendectomy specimens obtained after a preliminary diagnosis of appendicitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective evaluation was conducted on the results of appendectomy specimens examined histopathologically at Van Training and Research Hospital Pathology Laboratory from March 2016 to March 2022. Hematoxylin-eosin stained slides from 7,814 appendectomy specimens were scrutinized for the presence of E. vermicularis, acute inflammation, fecaloid material, lymphoid hyperplasia, obliteration, perforation, phlegmonous appendicitis, and peritonitis. Furthermore, slides stained with hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) from patients testing positive for E. vermicularis were re-evaluated by the author in pathology. RESULTS: E. vermicularis was identified in the appendectomy specimens of 50 (0.64%) out of 7,814 patients who underwent appendectomies. In histopathological examinations, the occurrence of lymphoid hyperplasia and fibrous obliteration was higher in E. vermicularis-positive patients compared to those who teste negative. Findings revealed that the mean white blood cell count (WBC) was lower in E. vermicularis-positive patients than in negative patients, while the mean eosinophil percentage (EO%) was higher. CONCLUSION: These findings imply that although the parasite is not a direct causative factor for appendicitis, it may contribute to the development of factors that result in obstruction in certain cases.