Paragordius varius
Smith, D.R.; Watson, D.D.; Clevenger, R.R.; McBride, R.C.
Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 114(9): 981-983
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-9985 PMID: 2390015 Document Number: 363091
We describe a 30-year-old man who presented with a tangled knot of worms that he "passed per rectum." The worms were identified as Paragordius varius. This is an uncommon pseudoparasite that is ingested from contaminated food or water. Identifying characteristics and the life cycle of Gordian worms are briefly discussed. Identification of this worm is important to distinguish it from true parasitic worms.