Learn About Whipworm Infection
Whipworm infection is an infection of the large intestine with a type of roundworm.
Intestinal parasite - whipworm; Trichuriasis; Round worm - trichuriasis
Whipworm infection is caused by the roundworm Trichuris trichiura. It is a common infection that mainly affects children.
Children may become infected if they swallow soil contaminated with whipworm eggs. When the eggs hatch inside the body, the whipworm sticks inside the wall of the large intestine.
Whipworm is found throughout the world, especially in countries with warm, humid climates. Some outbreaks have been traced to contaminated vegetables (secondary to soil contamination).
Most people who have whipworm infections don't have symptoms. Symptoms mainly occur in children, and range from mild to severe. A severe infection may cause:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Fecal incontinence (during sleep)
- Rectal prolapse (the rectum comes out of the anus)
The drug albendazole is commonly prescribed when the infection causes symptoms. A different anti-worm medicine may also be prescribed.
Full recovery is expected with treatment.
Seek medical attention if you or your child develop bloody diarrhea. In addition to whipworm, many other infections and illnesses can cause similar symptoms.
Improved facilities for feces disposal have decreased the incidence of whipworm.
Always wash your hands before handling food. Teach your children to wash their hands, too. Thoroughly washing food may also help prevent this condition.
Published Date: December 24, 2020
Published By: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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Ince MN, Elliott DE. Intestinal worms. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 114.