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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Case report

Severe anemia due to pharyngeal leech infestation; a case report from Ethiopia

Authors: Nebiyu Shitaye, Segenet Shibabaw

Published in: BMC Surgery | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

Leeches are rare blood-sucking endoparasites. Swimming in streams and ponds as well as drinking contaminated water are the major ways to acquire leeches.

Case presentation

A 6 year old boy who came with a history of hematemesis, frequent spitting of blood stained saliva, fatigue and anorexia to a rural hospital in Ethiopia. This was a rare case of severe anemia caused by a single leech infestation of laryngopharynx that required blood transfusion.

Conclusion

Leech infestation should be considered as a source of unexplained hematemesis, spitting of blood and severe anemia in rural areas.

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Title: Severe anemia due to pharyngeal leech infestation; a case report from Ethiopia
Authors: Nebiyu Shitaye
Segenet Shibabaw
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Surgery / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2482
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12893-017-0298-7

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Severe anemia due to pharyngeal leech infestation; a case report from Ethiopia

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

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