Worms in a Biliary Tree

Biliary Tree

• Your biliary tree consists of a system of ducts that directs the flow of bile from your gallbladder to your small intestine. Your liver first produces the bile then passes it to your gallbladder for storage.

Worms

• Parasites in the biliary tree occur most commonly in people who live in the Far East, including the countries of Japan, Vietnam and Korea. The most prevalent types of worms that inhabit the biliary tree are Cionorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini. These worms often come from ingesting infested fish. This variety of flatworm enters the bile duct from the duodenum, the first portion of the intestine. The worms mature to around 1/3-inch in length and have suckers that allow them to attach themselves to the inner lining of the bile ducts. Proper food preparation, including refrigeration and cooking, can help decrease the risk of parasites in fish and other sources of food.

Diagnosis

• According to the Uniformed Services University, ultrasound machines are the method of choice for determining the presence of biliary tree worms. These worms show up as long, narrow lines on sonograms. The worms often exit the biliary tree spontaneously although persistent cases of worm infestations may require medical treatment and can increase the risk of certain health disorders.

Risks

• The presence of biliary tree worms can lead to localized tissue damage within the biliary tree, due to the constant irritation of the cells and tissues. Parasitic infestations in the biliary tree can increase the risk of cancer. Johns Hopkins Pathology warns that this type of worm infestation may increase the risk of biliary tract carcinoma by as much as 50 percent. Seek medical care if you feel ill after eating undercooked fish or meat.