Ascaridíase numa grávida com bacteriémia por Listeria

Abstract

Case Presentation: We report the case of a 23-year-old primigravida, originally from São Tomé and Príncipe, who was admitted in the third trimester due to Listeria monocytogenes bacteraemia, with an incidental diagnosis of ascariasis. The patient presented with iron-deficiency anaemia and elevated transaminases, remaining clinically stable with preserved fetal well-being. During hospitalisation, she vomited a live worm, identified as Ascaris lumbricoides by parasitological examination. She was treated with albendazole and intravenous ampicillin, with a favourable maternal and fetal outcome and subsequent delivery of a healthy newborn.   Discussion: Ascariasis, common in tropical regions, is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and may exacerbate anaemia and impair maternal immune response. A potential link between ascariasis and increased susceptibility to invasive bacterial infections, such as listeriosis, has not been proven, and the literature has not identified similar documented cases of coinfection during pregnancy. Both infections are associated with serious complications, including preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and fetal death.  Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of parasitological surveillance in pregnant women from endemic areas and underscores the need for greater attention to neglected tropical diseases in the context of migration in Portugal.