Background. Ascariasis remains one of the most common helminth infections in the world, particularly in countries with temperate climates, including Ukraine. The problem remains understudied and clinically underestimated in the field of outpatient gynaecology and primary care. The aim was to determine the relationship between the presence of ascariasis, skin rashes on the face, gynaecological diseases, changes in hormonal status and blood clotting disorders in women of reproductive age.
Materials and methods. A total of 234 women aged 18 to 47 years who consulted a gynaecologist for vaginal discharge and had characteristic rashes on the skin of the face were examined. The comprehensive examination included: gynaecological examination, microscopy of smears, ultrasound of the pelvic organs and abdominal cavity, laboratory analysis of faeces for helminth eggs, examination for demodicosis, hormonal profile (oestrogens, cortisol), coagulogram, and clinical blood and urine tests. The control group consisted of 20 women with no signs of parasitic infestation or gynaecological pathology.
Results. Ascaris lumbricoides eggs were found in the stool of 196 women (83.8 %), and Giardia cysts were also detected in 13 patients. Thrombocytosis was recorded in 62 (26.5 %) of the examined women, thrombocytopenia in 27, and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time in 20 %. In 86 % of cases, inflammatory gynaecological diseases (endocervicitis, salpingo-oophoritis, endometriosis, bacterial vaginosis) were diagnosed. In 78 % of patients with acne and ascariasis, elevated cortisol levels were detected, and in 63 % — hormonal imbalance (hypoestrogenism or relative hyperestrogenism). Specific rashes in the lower third of the face appeared before menstruation or after stress.
Conclusions. Women with ascariasis have a characteristic clinical triad: skin rashes (acne), gynaecological inflammatory diseases and dysbiosis caused by parasitic invasion, changes in immune and hormonal status, as well as disorders of the coagulation system. It is advisable to include parasitological and coagulation tests in the diagnostic algorithm for patients with recurrent acne, bacterial vaginosis, and endometriosis.